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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. 






THE 

■ 



TEMPLAR 



AT 



WORK. 



.<■ 



What Good Templary is, What it does, and How to do it. 



By FRANK J. SIBLEY, 
G. W. C. T. of Nebraska, U. S. A. 



PYRlGHr, 



( DEC 21 



R.W. 6. L. I. O. of G. T. 

1884. 






Copyrighted 1881 by Frank J. Sibley. 



STATE JOURNAL CO., 

pointers and el.ectrotypkks, 

Lincoln, Nee 






TO 

HON. SAMUEL D. HASTINGS, 

The loved and honored leader who grows old without 
growing weary of Good Templar labors ; and who laid 
deep foundations for our work in the Uniform Constitu- 
tions, of which he is the originator; and to 

JOHN B. FINCH, 

The brave and earnest champion of unity and indivisi- 
bility in our Order, 

This volume is affectionately inscribed by 

THE AUTHOR. 



PREFACE. 



This book has been written in the midst of very ac- 
tive work for the Order! Intervals of leisure to devote 
to its preparation have been very rare, most of the work 
having been done on " the road," — at hotels, railway 
stations, or on the cars, — anywhere that a moment could 
be snatched from other constantly pressing duties. 

This, it is hoped, will explain and excuse any lack of 
symmetry which may be discovered, and which might 
have been perfected, could the author have given unin- 
terrupted labor to its compilation. 

With a hope and a prayer that it may benefit the Or- 
der he loves and labors for, the author sends it forth. 

FRANK J. SIBLEY. 

Lincoln, Neb., Oct. 15th, 1884. 



INTRODUCTION 



In preparing this manual, the author has had two ends 
in view : 

Fi?*st—To so simplify plans and methods of work that 
those who have had no experience in our Order may at 
once be prepared to assume their share of the responsi- 
bilities and labors incident to the maintenance of a suc- 
cessful Lodge. 

Second— To familiarize the outside public with the ob- 
jects and design of Good Templar work, and to remove 
erroneous impressions which some have entertained in 
regard to the Order. 

Older Good Templars — those who for years have 
studied the problem of the temperance reform — may 
have thought out most of the questions treated in these 
pages. To these it need only be said, " Put your best 
thought into vigorous action and your Lodge will flour- 
ish, and the cause it represents will prosper/' 

Young and inexperienced members often need instruc- 
tion on points which it might be assumed should be clear 
without explanation. No one offers this instruction. 
Thus the efficiency and often the interest of new mem- 
bers is greatly lessened. A few words, a simple sugges- 
tion, might have put them on the right track and set 
them heartily at work, but experienced members think- 
ing it unnecessary to go into minute details, the needed 
information is never given. 

Not having started right, indifference soon takes the 



8 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

place of interest and the Order loses these new accessions 
before they have had time or opportunity to learn its 
lessons or understand its plans and workings. 

Those who have never been members of a Good Tem- 
plar Lodge sometimes entertain very unreasonable ideas 
of its work. These mistaken notions form the only bar- 
rier to their union with a Lodge. They are zealous, true, 
and earnest in their sympathy with the cause of temper- 
ance, and would make valuable acquisitions to our ranks. 
To overcome their prejudice by a calm presentation of 
facts will often remove the only obstacle to their becom- 
ing Good Templars, and identify them with us. 

An authoritative statement of true ideals, principles, 
and methods of the Order has long been needed. It is 
hoped that this work may partially supply that need. 

Let it be remembered that Good Templary is as pro- 
gressive as the age in which it flourishes, yet its princi- 
ples are ever the same. Resting on the adamantine foun- 
dations of God's everliving truth, it rears its temples 
block by block, state by state, higher and higher, nearer 
and nearer to the habitations of the Holiest. Its feeble 
arms borrowing strength from the Infinitely Strong, 
reach down into the lower deeps of human misery, and 
lift the blind and shackled soul into liberty and light. 
The voice of its thousands, tremulous with pity, whispers 
consolation in the ear of the despairing and the dying. 
The light of its lodge room is a beacon, gleaming over 
the sea of dissipation, pointing the storm-tossed wreck to 
a home, a haven, and hope. 

The heart of the Order beats in unison with the great 
throbbing heart of the Infinite. 

Wherever the battle against intemperance waxes hot- 
test, look for Good Templar banners in the van. 



INTRODUCTION. 9 

Wherever courage, self-sacrifice, or compassion is 
wanted to cripple the enemy or rescue his victim, the 
Good Templar responds to the call. 

Whether at the ballot-box, or in the court, or by the 
wayside, wherever there is labor to perform, Good Tem- 
plars will be found bravely and fearlessly doing their 
duty. 

Start any movement for 'the amelioration of the con- 
dition of the unfortunate victims of the dramshop, no 
matter how humble and thankless the service, the true 
Good Templar never shrinks from its performance. 

For the trophies of its victories over vice and error, 
the Order proudly points to redeemed lives lifted from 
the dark depths of shame and dishonor by fraternal Tem- 
plar hands; to happy wives and mothers gladdened by 
the returning footsteps of wayward husbands and sons 
this Order has reclaimed; to childhood that shivered 
amid the awful shadows of the drunkard's home until 
Good Templary restored the wandering father, and 
brought warmth and sunshine never known before; to 
households that Good Templary found bare, and dark, 
and cheerless, now adorned and brightened by the sun- 
light of hope, and cheered by the ministry of love. 
These are laurels nobly won and proudly worn by our 
Order. Indeed, it may boast that because of its minis- 
try- 

" A million dim eyes that were weary with sadness, 
A million dark lashes still wet with their tears, 
Are raised to the light with a glimmer of gladness, 
As joy smiles again through the mists of the years." 



PART I. 



OF 

THE ORDER IN GENERAL. 



12 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

liquor minions would bow before it as the caravan bows 
before the " harmattan" of the desert. 

In pushing the work of organization, the temperance 
worker finds himself confronted by many obstacles and 
almost numberless objections are interposed against him. 
Among all these objections none are more ludicrous, and 
perhaps none more earnestly urged, than two, which are 
thrust in his teeth from different localities : 

1st. u We have no liquor drinkers in our community, 
therefore we have no need of an organization, and could 
not maintain one." 

2d. " We have so many liquor drinkers in OUR com- 
munity that a temperance organization could do no good, 
and could not be maintained." 

Taken together these two arguments are about as ab- 
surd as those of the backwoodsman who was asked by a 
stranger, who sought shelter in his leaky cabin during a 
rainstorm : 

i( Why don't you mend your roof? " 

u Because it's raining." 

u Why don't you mend it when it stops raining? " 

" Because it donH leak then." 

Imagine the liquor traffic adopting a similar policy. 
In New York, Chicago, Cincinnati ; in London, Liver- 
pool, Berlin, they would say : 

" We need no organization. The sentiment is over- 
whelmingly in our favor." 

In Maine, in Kansas, in Iowa they would say : 

" There are so many teetotalers we cannot maintain our 
organizations." 

But they do not adopt such short-sighted policy. In 
the great cities where their power is almost unques- 
tioned they make their strong leagues, they raise 
money, they plan campaigns. 






BENEFITS OF ORGANIZATION. 13 

In the coram unities where they are defeated they 
gather their enfeebled clans, strengthen them with 
money, and encourage them to evade or openly defy 
the laws. 

Examine the first objection mentioned — " no liquor 
drinkers. " 

How could this happen to be the fact in any commu- 
nity? 

Clearly, sometime there has been temperance train- 
ing, by which these fathers, these middle-aged men, 
these gray-haired men learned the lessons of sobriety 
and abstinence. Society, association^ organization has 
somewhere been at work, leaving its mark on these 
lives, fashioning these characters. Though the organi- 
zation that wrought its impress on these men has long 
since dissolved, its hallowed influences still remain, 
breathing benedictions wherever they may go. 

But there is growing up in those communities a new 
generation who have received none of this organized 
training. True, this new generation may not have fall- 
en into evil habits, but the sole reason may be found in 
the fact that they have not been tempted. Surround- 
ings and circumstances may have been heretofore wholly 
favorable to their continued abstinence. What the re- 
sult will be when the circumstances change, when 
other surroundings are sought, and other and less manly 
associations begin to wield their influence ; what the re- 
sult may be when they go out into a wider, wickeder 
world, is problematical at least. 

At this time in their lives the value of previous thor- 
ough training will be felt and seen. Without that traiiir 
ing the young man going among new, strange scenes, 
among the glitter and gaiety and gaudy glare of gilded 



14 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

vice, becomes too easily fascinated, and falls into trans- 
gression. 

Given years of the associations and teachings of an or- 
ganized temperance society and his mind would have 
been so fortified against these allurements, so strength- 
ened by education, so firmly fixed in principles, that, like 
Ulysses bound to the mast, he would sail in safety past 
the syren songs wafted over the waters from the isles of 
temptation. 

It may be urged that home training will accomplish 
all this; that parental admonition and example will so 
establish the character that it will remain unshaken by 
any after surroundings and associations. 

Doubtless, in some measure, this is true. In the per- 
fect home is the best hope for the rearing of a perfect 
manhood and womanhood. The truest ideals may there 
be reached, the grandest conceptions of character attained. 
But it must be remembered that the real home is a place 
apart from the great, busy world. Its theories, its teach- 
ings, its visions of life, even its joys and sorrows, be- 
long to a realm which seems too sacred to bear relation 
to the outer circles of the surging sea of humanity. " 
Seen from the home, the world is different and distant. 
Going: out from the home into life's turmoil and excite- 
ment, the finer sensibilities will receive many a rude 
shock, till constant contact with hard, stern, and unre- 
lenting evil, blurs and blots the pictured ideals, and the 
young man begins to feel that "home" dreams Avere 
vague unrealities — misty, uncertain visions. 

Association in an organized society would have sup- 
plemented home influence and strengthened it. Brought 
face to face with evil, the voung man would say to him- 
self: 



BENEFITS OF OKGANIZATION. 15 

" Home teaching said I would meet this, society said 
I would meet it. But I have pledged home and society 
that I will resist evil. I will keep my pledge." 

The special training of the organized temperance body 
gives to each of its members broader views and better 
understanding of what the world contains, and how to 
meet its ordeals. 

It awakens thought. It arouses consideration of the 
problems involved. It lays the foundations for stability 
of character. 

Every community now free from the drink vice will 
do well to organize to keep free. Without effort, without 
instruction, without walls of defense, without watchmen 
on the towers, the insidious foe will inevitably creep into 
some household and make its pride and strength his 
captives. 

Drinking habits are not often fixed upon the victim by 
a deliberate determination to acquire them. In most 
instances the beginnings of the vice are in the utter 
thoughtlessness of inconsiderate youth. 

A boy is asked to take a social glass. He has seen 
men drinking. He may even think it manly. He has 
never given the subject serious thought. No one has 
ever pressed it upon his attention. How should he know 
there is " death in the glass ? " He does not dream of 
the extent of its possibilities for evil. Untaught, un- 
warned, he steps into the dangerous path. Its dangers are 
still hidden. He advances further. Even yet its ghastly 
victims are covered from his gaze. Now try pleadings. 
Now try admonition. He scoffs at your entreaties. He 
laughs at your fears. 

"Haven't I had experience?" he argues. " I have 
been to the dram shop and come forth unscathed. You . 
2 



16 



THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 



talk of danger. It does me no harm. You talk of appe- 
tite gaining control. I shall never let my appetite get 
the better of me" 
He verifies the words of the poet. 

" Sin is a monster of such hideous mien 
That, to be hated, needs but to be seen. 
But seen too oft, — familiar with its face, 
We first endure, then pity, then embrace." 

In the opposite example — a community where liquor 
drinkers greatly outnumber the abstainers — the crying 
need of a temperance organization is undeniable. There 
may be discouragements in carrying it on, but they will 
not compare with the difficulties that have beset the 
workers in other great reforms. 

A society maintained among such adverse surround- 
ings may not appear to be flourishing, nor indeed to be 
accomplishing anything, yet every day of its existence its 
silent teaching is felt by the community. It forces them 
to think. It is among them. They cannot ignore it. 
Like Banquo's ghost " it will not down." In the midst 
of their dissipations it rises before their dizzy brains. 
It makes the morning's remembrance of last night's folly 
more keenly remorseful. It awakens slumbering con- 
science. Even those who mock will feel its influence. 
They will hide from the public gaze. 

Moderate drinkers will dislike to be seen frequenting 
the drinking places, where before they went unhesita- 
tingly. Some of them will consider whether it is worth 
while to risk reputation where nothing can be gained. 
They will see as they never perceived before, that mor- 
ality, Christianity, virtue, intelligence, do not gravitate 
toward the dramshop. Sober, earnest thought, before it 
is too late, will lead some into the safe path of abstinence. 



BENEFITS OF ORGANIZATION. 17 

They may not become members of the society, yet none 
the less surely the society has saved them. 

The few true and staunch friends of temperance who 
organize and maintain a society should feel no discour- 
agement because drinking habits greatly predominate in 
spite of their efforts. Even though their numbers do 
not increase, the world is better for their work. By and 
by the silent influences that have been constantly ex- 
tending outward from their society will have wrought a 
revolution in the community. Perhaps a casual observer 
could hardly explain whence and how the change came, 
but even the casual observer sees there is a change. Those 
most affected by the changed conditions may be least 
cognizant of the forces that have produced these condi- 
tions. To realize the amount of good the temperance 
society accomplished in the gradual development of habits 
of abstinence, it would be necessary to picture social life 
as it would have been without the instruction and teach- 
ing the society may have given. 

One of the greatest benefits of organization is the fact 
that it brings together those of similar views, so that 
when a contest comes, each will feel that others are 
pledged to help him. He will know who they are, 
where to find them. 

An actual conversation that occurred between an old 
citizen and a temperance worker who visited his neigh- 
borhood illustrates the condition of thousands of com- 
munities where no organized work is being prosecuted. 

"What are the chances for starting a Good Tem- 
plar Lodge in your school house ?" was asked. 

"Not very good," the old citizen replied. "I don't 
know of half a dozen temperance people in this neigh- 
borhood." 



18 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

" Well, if nearly all the people of your vicinity are 
drinkers, it is important that some temperance influences 
be set at work to counteract these evil tendencies." 

" I don't mean that everybody around here drinks/' 
the old gentleman responded. " I don't believe hardly 
any of 'em drink, but they just don't care anything about 
temperance'' 

" Shall we not have a public meeting and try to arouse 
these people from their apathy ? " 

" Of course you can have a meeting and I will do all 
I can to help you, but it may not accomplish anything," 
was the reply. 

The meeting was held. The Lodge question was dis- 
cussed, and an evening appointed to organize. On the 
appointed evening fifty persons were present and united 
with the Lodge. Nearly all of them were substantial 
temperance people, but, like the old citizen first men- 
tioned, suposed they were occupying that position almost 
alone. 

Here was temperance force, sentiment, strength. It 
was utterly unavailable. It could not be concentrated. 
It could not even be computed. It knew no leadership, 
no words of command, no watchwords for action. Each 
man felt as a sentinel must feel, pacing alone on his beat, 
around a camp of the dead. 

This is one community. The numbers like it are al- 
most countless. How shall we fight our battles " for 
God, and home, and native land," unless these great 
dormant energies are aroused ? 

How can we win our victories for truth and purity un- 
less we can enlist the loyal millions, who love the tem- 
perance banner, into our armies, and bring them into 
line? 



BENEFITS OF ORGANIZATION. 19 

A relentless, bitter foe is before us. Determined, ag- 
gressive, vigilant, the liquor power stands guard over its 
business. 

If we would make our cause succeed, we must meet 
their relentless hate with unfaltering courage ; their b-t- 
terness with manly firmness; their determinations with 
unflinching purpose; their aggressions with repulses; 
their vigilance with equal watchfulness; their massed 
phalanx with disciplined legions. 

The masses have long been with us. Deep under the 
surface there is a profound faith in our principles. The 
honest convictions of the people tell them that our cause 
is just. 

It only remains for us to galvanize this faith into ac- 
tion, to bring these convictions into unity with a central 
thought and purpose ; to gather the isolated factors into 
harmonious co-operation, and success is certain. 



CHAPTER II. 



THE CLAIMS OF GOOD TEMPLARY. 



Investigation will convince every thinking man of the 
necessity of some organization for the prosecution of the 
temperance work. 

The next step in the inquiry is, " What organization 
most nearly answers the needs of the reform ?" 

Doubtless all distinctively temperance organizations 
have their missions and their special fields of usefulness. 
Towards each we would extend the hand of brotherhood, 
welcoming each to partnership in our toils and our tri- 
umphs. We have not time for jealous emulation ; we 
have not strength to squander in internal strife. 
" Shoulder to shoulder on the battle-field, hand in hand 
in the camp," should be the motto of all the temperance 
clans. This has ever been the motto of the true Templar. 

The Independent Order of Good Templars is built on 
broad and deep foundations. Springing up after time 
had tested and found wanting many of the early theories, 
it sought to express in its platform ideas that would 
cover the entire domain of temperance effort. It points 
out two lines of action, and drills its members to march 
in either column of the great temperance army. 

One column under the Templar banner, goes out like 
the good Samaritan, to bind the wounds and heal the 
bruises of the victim of dramshops; the other column, 

[20] 



THE CLAIMS OF GOOD TEMPLABY. 21 

under the same banner, marches boldly to the very gates 
of the drunkard-makers' strongholds, and in the name 
of law demands that they be dismantled and surrend- 
ered. " Moral suasion for the drinker ; prohibition for 
the state/ 7 has ever been the Good Templar watchword. 

Unswervingly adhering to this principle, the Order has 
been extended into most of the nationalities of Christen- 
dom. Its wonderful growth and vigor may be attrib- 
uted to its comprehensive grasp of the whole question ; 
to its clear conception of all the issues involved. 

The history of its growth has been ably written by 
Bro. Parker. He has recited its early struggles and its 
later successes. Those who wish to know how the Order 
arose, and how it has prospered will do well to peruse 
his instructive volume. 

We may point with pride to the fact that the Order 
crossed the ocean aud gathered hundreds of thousands of 
members into its Lodge rooms in Great Britain; that it 
crossed the channel and Norway and Sweden swung into 
line ; that it planted its standard beside the beer-vats of 
Germany, and under the shadows of the purple hillsides 
of France ; that it invaded Africa, and is sending the 
glimmer of dawn over the " dark continent "; that its 
avant couriers have borne its standard to the remote 
" islands of the sea " and their wild children have learned 
a new, grand faith from its teachers ; that even the round- 
eyed children of the Orient have " looked out of their 
windows of sunrise" to behold Good Templary shedding 
upon them the light of a new morning. 

It may be well to inquire what are the innate elements 
of strength that have accomplished all this for the Order. 

In addition to its broad platform of principles, al- 
ready mentioned, it has perfected a system of work which 



22 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

has materially aided in the execution of its plans and 
purposes. 

1st. It recognizes woman's influence as a necessary- 
factor in the contest. The Order undertakes the moral 
elevation of society. Woman is the type and emblem 
of morality and purity. It could not teach morals if 
the best moral element were left out. Few natures be- 
come so imbruted that the presence of a true* pure wo- 
man will not arouse the better sentiments and nobler im- 
pulses that have long been dormant in their souls.* 

* Good Templary was the first organization in the world to ad- 
mit woman to a position of exact equality in all its departments. 
The treatment of women by other temperance workers, and before 
Good Templary became a recognized force in the reform, was every- 
where similar to that of conventions described by Mr. Finch in a 
speech in Decatur, Illinois, in 1882 : 

'■' In 1852 Susan B. Anthony and Amelia Bloomer were appointed delegates 
to a state temperance convention held in Syracuse, N. Y. These grand wo- 
men were rejected by the convention simply because they were women. Rev. 
Dr. Mandeville making a bitter speech against their admission. In the fall of 
that year Antoinette Brown attended the World's Temperance Convention, 
where the scenes of the Syracuse convention were repeated, Rev. John Cham- 
bers acting the buffoon arid fossilized idiot. Horace Greeley, speaking of these 
disgraceful occurrences in the Tribune of September 7th,1852, said: " This con- 
vention has completed three of its four business sessions and the results may 
be summed up as follows: 

First Day— Crowding woman off the platform. 

Second Day— Gagging her. 

Third Day— Voting that she shall stay gagged. 

Having thus disposed of the main question we presume the incidentals will 
be finished this morning." 

Under such circumstances, against the pressure of public opinion, the 
Good Templar leaders adopted as their second plank positive and absolute 
equality of the sexes." 

This policy has proved wise and helpful to the work. 

During the civil war in America, every loyal son of the republic 
was bent on saving the nation's life, on saving its flag from dis- 
honor. As the war cloud lowered lower and the battle smoke hung 
darker over the nation, father and brother and son shouldered the 
musket and went forth to defend the land they hoped to leave as a 
legacy to the children left in the care of mother, wife, and sister in 
the old home. Every thought seemed centered on armies and bat- 
tles. 

But in those days of crucial trial, the mothers kept the fires 
burning on Good Templar altars, and through their heroism and 
self-sacrifice trained up the boys and girls who trundled by their 
sides to the lonely Lodge rooms, into the grand manhood and wo- 
manhood that to-day leads the temperance hosts toward the vic- 
tory God has promised. 



THE CLAIMS OF GOOD TEMPLARY. 23 

2d. The Order endeavors to supply associations that 
will be helpful to the reformed man, to take the place of 
those that he abandons. The social feature is prominent. 
It brings all the members into more kindly and frater- 
nal relations. It seeks to realize the ideal of a home, 
uniting its members into a family circle. [See Chapter 
on " Conducting a Lodge " also " Good Templar Reform 
Work."] 

3d. The Order distributes the duties and responsi- 
bilities of membership equally and impartially. There 
is no caste. Each has exactly the same rights and priv- 
ileges. Each member is made to feel that he is a part of 
the organization. Its large number of officers affords op- 
portunities for many members to perform service in con- 
ducting the Lodge. By marking out their work clearly, 
their natural bashfulness and timidity is greatly lessened 
and their interest in the Lodge gradually and surely in- 
creases. 

4th. A life-long pledge is required. A temporary 
suspension of a vice is no reformation. Abstinence for 
one month or six, for a year or for a longer period, is to 
be encouraged, but a pledge with such limitation is lit- 
tle restraint. The old appetite smoulders ; it is even 
nursed by the prospects of a termination of the period 
for which the pledge was made. Genuine reform is the 
result of a conviction that the habits of the past have 
been wrong. Such conviction cannot be deep and abid- 
ing unless it brings a desire to abandon forever the course 
of wrong doing. 

5th. The Order recognizes the necessity of a training 
for the young which shall prevent the contraction of 
drinking habits. " Lift up the fallen and save others 
from falling" is its motto for moral suasion work. It 



24 



THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 



receives the children into membership at as early an 
age as they can understand its pledge. It makes them 
a part of itself. They thus learn to respect the Order 
and its principles before false teachers have an oppor- 
tunity to lead them astray. As they advance in years 
their habits of thought are trained into temperance chan- 
nels. The more the Order contributes toward their in- 
struction or even to their amusement, the better they 
will grow to love and respect the total abstinence it in- 
culcates. 

Youth cannot be expected to grasp great principles in 
a moment. Its comprehension of unseen, intangible 
things is but vague at best. Its affections are not be- 
stowed on theories it cannot understand. 

To win the young to reverence a principle, that prin- 
ciple must have a living, tangible embodiment. It must 
be represented in something they can see. The principle 
of temperance, represented by the Order and its attrac- 
tions, they can see and feel and understand. 

6th. It puts its members at work " saving others." 
The best means of confirming a man in his own pledged 
abstinence is to enlist his heart in the work of bringing 
others into the lodge. When he has rescued one he feels 
his responsibility toward that brother. It is one addi- 
tional bond, holding him in close relations with the 
Order. It is an additional incentive to faithfulness, 
another safe-guard against return to old habits. 

7th. While it invites all who believe in its princi- 
ples to become members, it requires of each the same 
conditions. . It does not trust its interests and its cause 
in the hands of those who cannot or will not assume ob- 
ligations of abstinence and pledge themselves to use all 
honorable means to promote abstinence in the community. 



THE CLAIMS OF GOOD TEMPLARY. 25 

8th, The secrecy of Good Templary is an element 
of strength. In open organizations there is no distinc- 
tion between the member and the general public. Ev- 
erybody who so desires may be present at meetings. 
Members have few rights or privileges not participated 
in by non-members. For this reason a process of disin- 
tegration begins, and continues until the open society is 
entirely dismembered. The secret organization, on the 
contrary, confers superior rights on its members. Inside 
the lodge room doors the members feel to a greater extent 
the brotherhood and fraternity the organization teaches. 
Its seclusion from the unsympathizing gaze of unfriendly 
eyes makes it less difficult for the convert to take his 
first steps in the new path of sobriety. Finding encour- 
agement in the outset, he rapidly grows into harmony 
with the spirit of the Order. 

9th. The financial system of the Order is a means of 
dividing the burdens so that they will not be oppressive. 
This system could only be maintained in a society which 
excludes non-members from its sessions. Every mem- 
ber pays his quarterly dues regularly in order to main- 
tain his standing in the Lodge. The small sum thus 
paid by each supports the work without becoming bur- 
densome to any. In an open society there is no special 
incentive to pay membership fees promptly, while in 
this Order the change of quarterly password makes 
prompt payment imperative. Without a financial basis 
the most brilliant theories fail of successful operation. 
We secure this basis in a manner so simple and easy 
that it must commend itself to every careful observer. 

10th. The instruction in " Parliamentary usage " ob- 
tained in a Good Templar Lodge often enables our 
younger members to appear to better advantage in public 



26 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

meetings and public discussions than older persons who 
have not had this training. Constant practical applica- 
tion and observation give a better understanding than 
mere rules and theories. 

11th. The literary exercises under " Good of the Or- 
der " are often the best school of elocution and composi- 
tion as well as extemporaneous speaking. Amusement 
and instruction are combined. The plans of literary 
work suggested in the chapter on " Conducting a Lodge " 
if carried out systematically, will give important aid in 
the education of members. 

12th. The ritual furnishes an outline of temperance 
study. Many other temperance organizations fail be- 
cause they have no perfected plans of work. Our rit- 
ual not only shows what to do and how to do it, but it 
is a treasury of temperance truth. Members hear this 
truth taught until it makes its impress so clear upon 
their minds that all after habits and associations will not 
suffice to efface it. The ritual is also a guide to those 
who are willing to help temperance work, but have not 
yet learned the needed lessons in the principles of the 
reform. There is not so great need of more workers as 
of more thorough training of those already enlisted. 
This training is supplied in part by the Good Templar 
ritual and drill. § 

13th. The public work of the Good Templars exceeds 
that of all the open organizations combined. When a 
worker is sent out to lecture in different communities, 
under the auspices of the Order, his time is more profit- 
ably employed than it could be if only independent or- 
ganizations required his services, and therefore much 
more can be accomplished by the same expenditure of 
money. Many localities never hear a temperance lecturer 



THE CLAIMS OF GOOD TEMPLARY. 27 

except when the Good Templars employ one and arrange 
for his meetings, nor would they ever secure a lecturer 
if left to themselves. The localities most likely to em- 
ploy and pay a lecturer would be those where the senti- 
ment is already strong. The weaker the sentiment the 
less likely a community would be to employ and pay 
for the help needed, if they must depend on their own 
resources. The mission system of the Order seeks to 
reach those localities where work is most needed, and to 
press temperance truth into the strongholds of the enemy. 
ISTo plan can be devised by which this can be accomplished 
except through the instrumentality of an organized body 
whose central head shall look out into the world and 
find the " waste places" waiting for its tillage, and send 
its laborers to make them " blossom as the rose." 

14th. The system of organizing and holding district 
and county lodges brings together the best thinkers and 
the most earnest workers from various parts of the dis- 
trict. The frequent assembling of these tried and true 
members stimulates their efforts in their home lodges, 
and acquaints them with successful methods of conduct- 
ing subordinate lodges practiced in different parts of these 
districts. New ideas thus gained and put in operation 
add greatly to the attractiveness of the home meetings. 

15th. Our Grand Lodges and Right Worthy Grand 
Lodge form the other steps in the ladder to the topmost 
round. 

Through this grand system vibrates like an electric 
current the thought and purpose which animate the 
whole. A severe contest in one jurisdiction arouses an 
interest more intense, more active, and more helpful than 
could be aroused except by the close kinship and frater- 
nity of our Order. 



28 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

When a life and death struggle for prohibition was 
waged in Kansas, Iowa, Ohio, and Maine, in the United 
States of America, the Good Templars of those states 
were able to call on sympathizing Templars in other ju- 
risdictions for help, which was nobly given. Without 
this help the victory might have been gained, but cer- 
tainly could not have been so decisive. 

With this perfected system ; with world-wide extent ; 
with drilled and disciplined force ; with comprehensive 
plans of work ; with clear conceptions of the needs of the 
cause ; with the prestige of past success ; with the spirit 
of self-sacrifice and devotion manifested by its friends — 
Good Templary will continue in the foremost ranks of 
the agencies for the advancement of temperance truth. 



CHAPTER III. 



OBJECTIONS TO GOOD TEMPLARY 
ANSWERED. 



Captious critics object to Good Templary on various 
grounds. Their objections are often frivolous and 
would not deserve notice were it not that they lead some 
who have little knowledge of our work into mistaken 
views of the aims and design of the Order. 

Briefly stated, the purpose of the organization is to 
elevate, to purify, to ennoble, to make the world better. 

The objector says : " The Christian church does this ; 
therefore what need of a Good Templar society ? " 

The true Christian looks with pained, grieved heart 
at the dark picture of the world's drunkenness, and will 
hail with joy every instrumentality that undertakes the 
task of alleviating the sorrows it has caused. 

John the Baptist, crying in the wilderness, did not, 
could not preach the wondrous gospel of the Son of God, 
but the " forerunner " was necessary as a teacher of the 
first crude steps toward Godliness — the " bringing forth 
fruits meet for repentance." 

The Good Templar Lodge brings the sin-stained life 
a little nearer to the foot of the cross — nearer the reach 
of means of grace. 

Can any man say, dare any man say, that God ac- 
counts as nothing the cleansing from the sin of drunken- 

[29] 



30 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

ness, because all sin is not removed, and the life wholly 
regenerated ? 

Every day we find the fatal spell of drink upon men 
whom the church has not reached, who do not, and will 
not come within the pale of Christian influences. We 
seek them and ask them to come and hear the gospel 
preached ; we pray and plead with them, but their hearts 
are hardened in sin and they refuse to listen to our en- 
treaties. 

Shall we then wait with folded hands for the church, 
already overburdened with the responsibilities of the 
world's salvation, to reach and save these drinkers, 
watching them sink deeper and deeper in dishonor? Is 
it not more reasonable, more Christian, that we should 
set in motion other forces to aid the church in its labors 
for humanity ? 

There is no antagonism, there can be no cross-pur- 
poses between Good Templary and the church. Every 
true Templar would gladly hail the day when the world's 
complete regeneration might be accomplished. We de- 
voutly pray for the speedy coming of the time when all 
the lands shall be brought within the circle of Christian 
influence. We shall then dare to leave our special work 
and devote ourselves wholly to the maintenance of the 
Christian faith in all its perfection. 

Until that time we must take the world as we find it, 
and strive to make it better by every means and activity 
within our reach. No real philanthropist ever feared 
there would be too many agencies for the amelioration 
of human misery. 

SECRECY. 

A few oppose the secrecy of Good Templary. The 
same persons approve secret sessions of church boards 



OBJECTIONS ANSWERED. 31 

and of governmental bodies, nor do they disclaim against 
the secrets of the household or the family. No man lives 
a life wholly open to the public gaze and it is mere hy- 
percritical cant to pretend that he does. No man believes 
he is committing sin by simply keeping his own affairs 
to himself. 

The pledge of the Good Templars is being adopted by 
all the more advanced temperance societies, whether open 
or secret. 

It is a promise, upon the honor of a member, never to 
use, make, or sell or furnish to others as a beverage any 
intoxicating liquors, "and to do all in his power, 

HONORABLY, TO SECURE THE DISCONTINUANCE OF 
THEIR USE IN THE COMMUNITY." 

In addition to this he pledges himself not to commu- 
nicate the passwords and signs of the Order. 

The secrets of a Good Templar Lodge consist only of 
passwords, signs, and signals designed to prevent un- 
friendly and unworthy persons from intruding on the 
meetings. Nothing that will harm the world is conceal- 
ed; nothing that will benefit the world is hidden. Good 
Templar secrecy is merely the" household arrangement of 
the temperance family, that is not communicated to the 
public. We aim to make the Lodge room a home; to 
bring each member within the hallowed influence of a 
family circle ; to arouse feelings of kinship and brother- 
hood that shall make each member feel bound by frater- 
nal ties to keep his pledge inviolate; to surround the 
returning prodigal with friendship so warm and disin- 
terested that he shall never return to his wanderings 
and dissipation. 

That this can be accomplished better by other means 
has not been demonstrated. Certain it is, that no open 



32 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

temperance organizations have stood the test of time, and 
of varying social conditions, as well as our Order has 
done. In proof of its value to the cause Good Templary 
points with pride to its noble record of saved men ; to 
hundreds of communities where its influence and teach- 
ings have wrought a moral revolution ; to its world- 
wide extent and achievements. 

It has ever been the faithful, ally of the Christian 
church in the work of elevating and purifying the world. 

CHILDREN IN THE ORDER. 

" Your Lodge is run by boys and girls. Your Order 
is a children's society/' is sometimes urged by opponents 
of the Order. 

The Order is making a splendid struggle against the 
drink-habit and the drink-traffic. It is organized to 
fight this battle. Its plans of work are plans for the 
suppression of drunkenness and drunkard-making. Its 
many victories already achieved are victories over a 
throned and sceptered evil ; its successes have been wrest- 
ed from a bitter and relentless foe. 

If children have accomplished this, thank God for 
the children's faith and courage. If this is boys' and 
girls' work, shame on men and women who ought to 
have helped, and by whose aid so much more might 
have been accomplished. 

Fathers and mothers should go with the children and 
help them in the lodge room. Youth is the seed-time. 
Let those of maturer years beware of the sowing. 

" Sow blessings and blessings will bloom, 
Plant hate and hate will grow. 
You may sow to-day, to-morrow will bring 
The blossom that proves what sort of a thing, 
Is the seed, the seed that you sow. " 



OBJECTIONS ANSWERED. 33 

Young people often fall into evil habits because of the 
neglect of fathers and mothers, not neglect of physical 
requirements, but neglect to manifest sufficient sympathy 
with the "inner life" of the child. 

Young people almost invariably feel, upon uniting 
with a G. T. Lodge, that they are doing a good act, not 
only for themselves, but one that will benefit humanity. 
If older persons laugh at or refuse to help them, and 
they permit the lodge to become less useful than it might 
be,' whose fault is greatest, that of the young who started 
well, or that of others older who never started at all? 

The fairest gems in the Good Templar crown of glory 
are its boys and girls, whose plastic youth is being mold- 
ed by its teachings into the perfectness of true manhood 
and pure womanhood. 

WEEKLY MEETINGS. 

u Your Lodge meets every week. That is too often," 
is urged by another objector. 

Dramshops everywhere are open six days in a week 
and from fifteen to twenty-four hours in a day, while in 
many places they even usurp the Sabbath and are never 
closed from the year's beginning to the year's end. If 
temptations are so constantly in the way, is it not a 
small thing indeed to ask temperance workers to spend 
two or three hours a week to help build barriers against 
the encroachments of the ever-watchful enemy ? 

There is less difficulty in maintaining interest in 
weekly meetings than there is semi-monthly or monthly 
gatherings. A certain fixed evening of each week will 
never be forgotten, while there arises constant confusion 
about the particular evening when the designated meet- 
ings are further apart. 



34 THE TEMPLAR AT WOBK. 

Lodges have sometimes tried the experiment of chang- 
ing from weekly to semi-monthly meetings in the hope 
that thereby the interest might be longer maintained, 
bat in almost every instance the consequences have been 
fatal. 

God's unit for the measurement of human labor is the 
week. Between the well-defined outlines of the weeks 
He puts the Sabbath, saying " This day man shall rest, 
that on the morrow six more days of labor may begin." 

VIOLATED PLEDGES. 

" Some of your members drink on the sly. Why don't 
you deal with them ? " asks another critic. 

This question is discussed at some length in the chap- 
ter on " Good Templar Reform Work." 

1st. Opponents of the Lodge sometimes make this 
declaration when it is totally false. 

2d. We may have dealt with them by those kindly 
means we seek to use, and the faulty ones may have 
changed since the rumor started, but the rumor goes on. 
" Falsehood travels ten miles while Truth is putting on 
her boots." 

3d. It must be remembered that we pick up many 
hard drinkers and try to save them. The dramshop 
associations so long indulged have seared their consciences 
and the poisonous drinks have created a constant, dis- 
eased craving for more. Society, by its laws, has per- 
mitted the traffic to open its doors and spread its noxious 
exhalations upon the very air these poor victims must 
breathe. Under these circumstances can it be expected 
that every man will keep his pledge? He wants to keep 
it. The very fact, if it be a fact that he drinks secretly, 
proves that he wants to keep his pledge and retain the 



OBJECTIONS ANSWERED. 35 

respect of his Good Templar associates, and as long as 
the Lodge can influence him even no more than this, 
there may be hope of his final salvation from drink. 

If this Christ-taught charity and tenderness is to be 
urged against Good Templary as a flaw in its system of 
work, we care not for the criticism. Even among the 
twelve disciples of Jesus one traitor was found. Would 
any man declare the teachings of the Nazarene were false 
because a traitor followed Him ? 

TEMPERANCE MEN IN THE ORDER. 

" I never drank anything intoxicating. I can't see 
what benefit it would be to me to join a Lodge/' is a 
statement frequently heard from sober total abstainers. 

" Cast thy bread upon the waters, and after many 
days thou shalt find it again." God has promised. 
Will you take His word ? 

The benefits really received from a good act are not 
always acknowledged or even perceived. 

If a drunkard is saved, every sober man in the com- 
munity is benefited. If drunkenness is a menace to the 
peace and security of society, the salvation of one drinker 
diminishes the danger. It is better to employ moral 
agencies to lift the intemperate towards manhood than 
to employ policemen to lock them in prisons. 

But the personal benefit to the sober abstainer may 
be greater than he can estimate. 

1st. As a safeguard to his own actions, his member- 
ship in a Good Templar Lodge may be of countless 
worth. Until God reveals the hidden evils that have 
lurked about us, we can never even dream of abysses of 
danger we have barely avoided, nor understand the ex- 
tent of the influences that saved us. 



36 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

A man of sixty, looking back over his life, might say : 

" I never drank a drop of liquor. I did not need a 
Templar pledge to save me" 

The same man may have stood firm against tempta- 
tions to which he would have yielded, had not his Tem- 
plar pledge and associations restrained him. This he 
may not know nor understand, yet the silent influence 
was not less potent because he did not know to what ex- 
tent it was exerted. 

2d. As a safeguard for his children the Lodge may 
be more than he comprehends. Father and mother are 
the beacons by which the young mariner begins to guide 
his life bark. If father and mother are Good Templars 
he will look upon the organization with such respect as 
will hold him firmly to its pledges and principles, and 
bring him through the allurements of youth unscathed 
by vice. 

The best temperance men and women should join our 
Lodges. They must not rest inactive, and excuse them- 
selves from labor upon the claim that they are good 
enough. 

It would be as reasonable to stand aloof from the " 
church with the false plea : " I am a good Christian. I 
pray in my family, and read the Bible, and sing hymns 
around the home altar. The church is a good thing for 
sinners, and for those who have not a substantial Chris- 
tian character, but / donH need it" 

Such a plea would be absurd, but is no more ridicu- 
lous than the notion that temperance men should be ex- 
empt from the duties and responsibilities of temperance 
work. 

Without Christians organized and united into church 
bodies, who would build churches, conduct Sabbath 



OBJECTIONS ANSWERED. 37 

schools, maintain missions, and scatter gospel truth 
throughout all the lands? 

Without organizations of temperance people who would 
conduct campaigns, scatter temperance literature, and 
thunder at the gates of the enemy's strongholds ? 

The sodden and debased inebriate certainly would 
not. The self-satisfied moderate drinker, measuring all 
the world by his own standard, would give no aid. 
Fashion's butterflies, sipping. wine from goblets of gold, 
would never dream of humanity's great needs. 

So the world swings further into the narrowing circles 
of the maelstrom of the drink-vice until the temperance 
worker makes fast the life-boat to the rock of total ab- 
stinence, and faces the perils of the deep to save his 
sinking brothers. 

FALSE AND FRIVOLOUS OBJECTIONS. 

It would be impossible to answer all the false and 
frivolous objections urged against Good Templary. 

Recently a minister of the gospel declared before a 
large assemblage, that Good Templars were "sworn 
to secrecy by the strongest oaths." Half an hour later 
the same minister, in a private conversation with the 
writer, admitted that he was aware that no oath was re- 
quired, or, in other words, that he had lied about the 
Order in public, and for effect. 

Enemies to our organization sometimes make the 
sweeping assertion, " Good Templar Lodges always do 
more harm than good." Call upon them to specify the 
cases where harm has been done, and they have no an- 
swer, but repeat the same assertion, hoping by reckless 
bravado and bluster to cover up their utter lack of any 
facts to confirm their declarations. Push the demand 



38 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

for specific instances, and they modify their first utter- 
ance by saying : 

" Perhaps not all, but most of the lodges do harm." 
" Where do you know of one that has done injury?" 
" Well, there's lots of them that don't do any good." 
" Where have you known one that did no good ? " 
"Well, I knew a Good Templar who used to get 
drunk." 

Starting with the broadest denunciation of the entire 
institution, the objector winds up by admitting that all 
he knows to its discredit is, that one out of its hundreds 
of thousands of members was false to his pledge of absti- 
nence, and because Good Templary once failed to lift a 
fallen man, because it sought to cleanse a sin-stained 
soul and failed, therefore, the objector urges, the whole 
institution is an injury. 

Almost invariably a demand for specifications to our 
opponent's charges, proves that his estimate of the whole 
organization is based upon the recollection of some un- 
worthy person whom he knew years before. 

All who oppose us can be readily answered by point-, 
ing to the noble deeds of the thousands of tried, true, 
and valiant solders in the temperance armies, whose 
training for the battles of the reform have been wholly 
in our lodges. 

If individual life and action is to be the measure of a 
society, then let the worth of Good Templary be com- 
puted by the vast majority of its members who are hon- 
est, true, and self-sacrificing in their efforts for God and 
humanity. 

Do not,, in the name of fairness, do not judge it by the 
miserable fragments of wasted lives it has nobly sought 
to rescue from the unholy hands of its enemies. 



CHAPTER IV. 



THE RIGHT WORTHY GRAND LODGE. 



The Right Worthy Grand ' Lodge is the head of the 

Order. Its constitution declares : 

It (the R. "W. G. L.) is the source of the true and legitimate Order 
of Good Templars, and possesses original jurisdiction and authority 
over the whole Order. \_E. W.G. L. Constitution Article, 1., Sec. 2.~\ 

Being the "true source " whence Good Templary em- 
anates, it follows that the R. W. G. L. should foster, 
protect, and extend the Order. 

) Neither Good Templary nor the temperance move- 
ment has been a spontaneous growth. To educate the 
people up to the present standards of thought on this 
question has cost vast labor and sacrifice. To plant the 
Order as widely as it now reaches has required marvel- 
ous energy coupled with years of patient toil. It can 
only maintain its present position by a continuance of 
the same energy and toil. To extend its labors and in- 
fluence beyond its present limits will require additional 
means and additional effort. To supply these should be 
the care of the whole Order. 

The importance of a central organization, ever vigilant 
and watchful over the interests of its subordinates 
throughout the world, is beginning to be understood, 
though not yet fully appreciated. Its necessity grows 
greater every year, as the struggle with the liquor power 
intensifies and deepens. 

[39] 



40 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

The states of the American Union are one by one pre- 
paring the contests for prohibitory amendments to their 
constitutions ; the provinces of the Dominion of Canada 
are urging the passage of laws to suppress the liquor 
traffic; England is agitating the permissive bill, and 
other wise legislation, looking toward the closing of its 
ale houses and tippling shops ; Australia, New Zealand, 
and Africa are awakening to the necessity of legislation 
on the liquor question; Norway and Sweden have been 
aroused, and continental Europe will ere long recognize 
the dangers threatening from its unlimited dramshops. 

When the contest comes, in each of these states and 
countries, when its settlement shall have narrowed down 
to a few weeks or months, the well-organized and cen- 
tralized liquor power will be able to concentrate im- 
mense force in the state, province, or country where the 
issue is pending. The R. W. G. L. must then be able to 
meet this organized power and concentrate the temper- 
ance forces on these chosen battle-fields of the reform. 

It may be asked, " Of what interest is the contest for 
constitutional prohibition in the American states to a 
Good Templar in Europe or Africa? " or, " How will it 
benefit Canada if England or Australia secure restrictive 
legislation?" 

The answer may be readily seen. 

Civilization extends by contact. The peculiar man- 
ners and ideals of a race or nation affect, in greater or 
less degree, every race or nation with whom it has com- 
mercial relations. As railroads, steamship lines, and tel- 
egraphs span continents and cross oceans, the nations of 
the world are being united in more fraternal bonds. The 
races of men are becoming more and more homogeneous. 
In a future era, the curse of Babel will be lifted, and all 



THE RIGHT WORTHY GRAND LODGE. 41 

the tribes and nations under the whole heaven, will speak 
one language. It will be the language of that people 
who most rapidly attain the highest type of civilization. 
It will come as the result of closer social and commer- 
cial relations. 

The intimate relations already existing among nations 
cause the systems adopted by one government to exert a 
silent, yet powerful influence in shaping the policy of 
another. 

As people of one country mingle freely with the peo- 
ple of other countries, they will not fail to perceive the 
benefits derived from wise laws framed for the promotion 
of the higher material interests of society. Perceiving 
these benefits to a sister nation, they will ask for the 
adoption of similar systems of legislation for their own 
government. 

If the liquor traffic were abolished in the American 
states the effect would be felt in England by the commu- 
nication of English-American citizens with their broth- 
ers in the mother country. If Germany and Sweden 
were to enact stringent liquor laws, their emigrants, go- 
ing by thousands to other countries, would not expect 
and demand of other countries the licensed beer-shop 
and drinking saloon. It is because the dram shop has 
been unrestrained in their own lands that these emigrants 
are clamorous for its continuance in countries to which 
they emigrate. Every new country which has room for 
immigration is especially and vitally interested in push- 
ing the temperance work in those countries whence its 
immigration comes. Every germ of temperance truth 
planted in England and in continental Europe will blos- 
som and bear fruit, not only at home, but in the United 
States of America, in the Dominion of Canada, in Aus- 



42 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

tralia, and in all the colonial dependencies of European 
nations. Hence it is of vital importance that the Good 
Templar of one country should help his brothers of other 
lands in their struggles for the overthrow of the drink 
curse. 

This massing of forces can only be accomplished 
through the agency of the R. W. G. L. Independent 
jurisdictions would neither have the power nor disposi- 
position to rally the temperance hosts for these great en- 
counters. 

That Good Templary may attain its highest ideals, and 
best promote the universal interests of the cause of tem- 
perance, the R. W. G. L. must be solidified and strength- 
ened and its power and resources constantly increased. 

At one time there was a tendency toward legislation 
by the R. W. G. L. which would inevitably have led to- 
wards dismemberment and the creation of numerous in- 
dependent jurisdictions, each working for itself, without 
regard for the great, the world-wide interests of the re- 
form. Had not such tendency been checked, the process 
of disintegration would have continued until not only 
the Grand Lodges, but the Subordinates, would have as- 
serted an independence which would have forever broken 
the fraternity of interest and feeling which now unifies 
the whole Order. 

From this calamity, wiser counsels and legislation by 
the R. W. G. L. have fortunately preserved us. This 
later policy must be continued. 

That the R. W. G. L. may be a " cherishing mother" 
to the whole Order, the whole Order must accept and re- 
ciprocate the relationship. Each strong Subordinate or 
Grand Lodge must be a strong factor in the R. W. G. 
L. The tax for the support of the mission and field 



THE EIGHT WORTHY GRAND LODGE. 43 

work of the E. W. G. L. must be fixed at ten cents per 
member at least. Without this, it is powerless to carry 
on needed work, build up weak jurisdictions, and assist 
in the great contests against the liquor traffic that are to 
come throughout the world. A ten cent tax will enable 
the R. W. G. L. to send into any single state, province, 
or country where a fierce temperance contest is being 
carried on, a strong force of workers, whose eloquence, 
logic, and learning will go far towards destroying the 
citadels of false reasoning and the bulwarks of deceit 
reared by the enemy. For this work the whole Order 
must pay and with no stinted hand. It wile pay. 
Each Grand jurisdiction will thus provide funds that 
will be returned in larger measure when the crucial 
time shall come for its own struggle. 

The necessity of a central head in every enterprise, 
religious, political, or social, has always been acknowl- 
edged. Every change wrought in laws or government ; 
every lightening of the burdens of oppressive despot- 
isms; every loosening of political bonds; every broken 
shackle of a slave, is but the answer to organized de- 
mands, — a recognition of concentrated force and power. 

That the R. W. G. L. may be the real head of the 
Order, it is necessary that it shall insist on uniformity of 
law and practice throughout the world, in all those cases 
involving the faith and principles of Good Templary. 

A mass of discordant and variable parts can never be 
bound together in a perfect union. 

Good Templary must be the same in all lands ; must 
be, to all observers, the embodiment of the same theo- 
ries and principles. It may grow, it must develop, but 
its growth and development must be along the whole line. 

The whole Order must appreciate the closeness of the 



44 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

relationship between its most distant parts. Each indi- 
vidual member must understand that through his repre- 
sentatives he may have voice in the highest councils of 
the Order. The weakest member must be made to real- 
ize that his cry for justice will be answered in the high- 
est tribunals of Good Templary. Let every member say 
and feel, " The R. W. G. L. is my R. W. G. L. It depends 
on me for support. It will give me its protection/' 

The sense of partnership will quicken and develop 
the interest. Nothing is more dangerous than to per- 
mit the feeling to grow up that the R. W. G. L. or 
the G. L. is a distant and distinct body, whose interests 
may sometimes conflict with those of the Subordinate 
Lodge. This false notion must everywhere be uprooted. 
The interests of every branch of Good Templary are 
identical. A blow struck at one branch will sooner or 
later affect all branches. 

Every effort must be used to secure and maintain that 
unity of action which will ever be our greatest strength, 
and our enemy's greatest terror. 

R. W. G. L. LITERATURE FUND. 

In addition to the special missionary fund to be raised 
by an annual per capita tax upon each member, laid 
equally on the whole Order, a system is provided for 
raising a literature fund to be devoted to the publication 
and circulation of temperance literature. 

This system is established by R. W. G. L. by-laws, as 
follows : 

Art. XVIII. The Right Worthy Grand Templar shall at each 
session of this body, after election and installation of officers, appoint 
a Literature Committee to consist of five members, whose duty 
it shall be to have charge of the circulation of temperance litera- 
ture for this body; the examination of temperance literature issued 



THE RIGHT WORTHY GRAND LODGE. 45 

hy the different publishing houses; the advising of the member- 
ship by circular of the nature, character, and quality of such litera- 
ture; the raising of money for the purpose of circulating literature 
in weak jurisdictions, and to build up the Order everywhere and 
suggest plans and methods of work to be followed by Subordinate 
Lodges. The committee shall remain in office during the year and 
submit a printed report of their work at the annual session of the 
R. W. G. Lodge. Said report shall contain an itemized account of 
all expenses, with vouchers for the same, said expenses to be paid 
out of the money raised by the committee. 

Art. XIX. Thanksgiving week of each year shall be known 
throughout the Order as " Missionary Week," and the entire Order, 
at the Subordinate Lodge meetings held during that week, shall be 
requested to raise at least one dime from each member of the Order 
to be sent to the Missionary Fund of the Right Worthy Grand 
Lodge, to be used by the Literary Committee of that body in the 
circulation of temperance literature. The funds raised shall be 
sent by the W. S. of the Subordinate Lodge to the G. W. S. of the 
Grand Lodge and by him to the R. W. G. S. The R. W. G. Secre- 
tary shall acknowledge the receipt of same and forward the same 
to the R. W. G. Treasurer, who shall keep it in a separate fund 
payable upon orders drawn by the R. W. G. Templar and R. W. 
G. Secretary, which orders shall be drawn upon the application 
of the Literature Committee, or a majority thereof, the action of 
said committee making such application to be certified to the R. 
W. G. Templar and R. W. G. Secretary by the chairman and secre- 
tary of said committee. 

The funds at the disposal of the literature committee 
will be increased by the sale of books published by them, 
and this item alone will very largely aid this branch of 
the work as soon as a sufficient working capital can be 
provided. The work of the literature committee will 
thus become one of the most important auxiliaries, and 
will greatly extend the influence and usefulness of the 
Order. 

Every Good Templar should therefore use his best en- 
deavors to make the annual collection for this fund as 
large as possible. 



46 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

A collection equal to ten cents per member would cir- 
culate free nearly thirty million pages of literature each 
year ; while twenty cents per member will be a sum suffi- 
cient to endow and maintain a publishing house, the extent 
of whose work and influences for good can scarcely be 
computed. 

In order to increase this collection, a thorough and 
systematic personal canvass of the members must be 
made. This canvass must not be confined to the present 
membership alone, but should reach all who have ever 
been Good Templars. It must not be a " hat " collection. 
A subscription blank like the following should be cir- 
culated : 

"We, the undersigned, believing in the vast power of temperance 
literature to advance and elevate public sentiment, promise to pay- 
within one week the sum set opposite our respective names, into 

the hands of chairman of collection committee of 

Lodge, No I. O. of G. T., to be forwarded to the G. W. Sec- 
retary for the literature fund of R. W. G. L. 

This subscription should be headed with the names of 
the most prominent and liberal members, and largest 
sums likely to be subscribed. Every member of the 
LodgQ should be seen, and afterwards any old Good 
Templars and friends of the cause in the vicinity.* 

* This work of circulating temperance literature free, is general 
work. Th e whole world is included in its promised benefits. Mil- 
lions of pages will go into the hands of those who have never been 
Good Templars, nor lived in the neighborhood of a Lodge. It is al- 
most wholly mission work, and every lover of the cause is interested 
in advancing this branch of the work equally with a Good Tem- 
plar. There should be no hesitancy in asking those outside the 
Lodge to contribute, as they are to receive the same benefits as the 
Lodge itself. 

Every father and mother is interested in temperance missionary 
work in the most distant lands. They cannot know into what far- 
off climes their children may wander, and the good seed they help 
to sow on distant soil may return them a harvest of more than 
an hundred-fold. 



THE RIGHT WORTHY GRAND LODGE. 47 

Let no one be overlooked. By personal solicitation and 
explanation of the requirements of the work and the 
value of this branch of it, such an interest will be 
awakened that a sum equal to twenty-five or even fifty 
ceuts per member can easily be raised, and a Good Tem- 
plar publishing house established and maintained. 

Let there be no delays. During the week fixed by 
the by-laws for taking the literature collection,* let 
the entire work be done. After all has been collected, 
it must be immediately forwarded to the G. W. Sec'y* 
and by him sent to the R. W. G. Sec, and placed to the 
credit of the literature fund. 

Report to G. W. Sec'y should be as follows : 

, G. W.Sec; 

Dear Bro. — Find enclosed dollars, being the annual 

collection of ...., Lodge No , for the literature fund of 

R. W. G. L. 

Please acknowledge receipt. 

Yours in F., H., and C, 



Every Lodge should, in addition, use its best efforts to 
increase the sale of all books and tracts published by the 
R. W. G. L. These will always be such as will educate 
and elevate public sentiment on the temperance question. 

Only the best and most valuable works will be selected 
for publication, and Lodges will not only benefit them- 
selves by their thorough circulation, but will awaken 
the public conscience in their several communities. 

* At the twenty-ninth annual session of R. W. G. L. (1883), the 
time for taking the literature collection was fixed for Thanks- 
giving week in each year. If any country has no Thanksgiving 
day fixed, it is recommended that the Lodges of that country take 
this collection during the last week in November of each year, if 
in north latitude; and during the first week in May in all coun- 
tries in south latitude. 

4 



48 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Every Lodge should have at least one copy of each 
work published by the R. W. G. L. Literature Commit- 
tee in its lodge room or library. Every Good Templar 
should also purchase a copy of each for his home, so that 
members of the family or visitors who do not belong to 
the Order may see and read them, and grow to respect 
and honor Good Templary, while they study its lessons 
and learn the great truths on which its foundations are 
established. 

It is proposed, as rapidly as possible, to issue a series 
of books and tracts on every phase of the reform, and 
embodying the latest facts and research developed by the 
best minds on these important questions. Let each 
Lodge become an agency for the dissemination of 
these works ; let them be scattered in every corner of 
every land; let their influence be felt, as it will be if 
every Good Templar does his duty, and ere long the 
curse of the open dramshop will forever disappear, and 
the earth will glow with the gladness of that freedom 
wherewith God makes his children free. 



CHAPTER Y. 



THE GRAND LODGE. 



The Grand Lodge is created by the election of repre- 
sentatives from each Subordinate Lodge on a basis fixed 
by each jurisdiction for itself. These representatives 
in their united capacity are empowered to legislate for 
their whole jurisdiction, within the limits fixed by R. 
W. G. L. 

Representing the Subordinate Lodges, or composed of 
them, its interests must be identical with them. The 
more fully this fact is realized, the more harmonious 
will be the relations between them. 

The Grand Lodge will define the duties and fix the 
pay of its working officers according to its circumstances 
and requirements. It should do business on business 
principles, and never require labor to be performed for 
the general welfare without compensating the laborer. 

In selecting officers, experience and discretion should 
be sought, and character above reproach. 

The chief executive will constantly be required tore- 
present the Order in public. He should be one who can 
address an audience. Superior talents for public speak- 
ing will secure increased respect for the organization he 
represents. Executive ability and power to harmonize 
discordant elements will be required. To become suc- 
cessful, a chief must possess the qualifications of a suc- 
cessful general. He must scan the field carefully; 

[49] 



50 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

choose wisely whom to appoint as his lieutenants ; ma- 
ture his plans thoroughly, and press their execution vig- 
orously and unfalteringly. He must not indulge preju- 
dice or favoritism. In his official capacity he must have 
neither friend nor foe, but mete out exact and impartial 
treatment to all alike. 

The Grand Worthy Secretary must be a book-keeper 
and an exact and careful business man. When a suitable 
man is found, let him be retained. Rotation in office 
is a humbug. Offices are not made for individuals. 
The offices were created to serve certain purposes and 
needs of the organization. The person who can best 
serve those purposes is the right person to elect, no mat- 
ter whether it be his first term or his fiftieth. 

The idea that offices must be " divided up " so as to 
give each aspirant an occasional opportunity to enjoy one, 
develops a brood of office-hunters, who hang over the 
latest incumbent, hoping some accident or inadvertence 
will hasten his official death, that their desire for office 
may be appeased. 

A good man will be better able to perform the duties 
of Secretary each succeeding year. The longer his service 
the better his qualifications. Bro. Evans, of Michigan, 
Bro. Hooker, of New York, Bro. Parker, of Wisconsin, 
and many other faithful Secretaries who have served 
long terms, have proved the wisdom of continuing ca- 
pable officers in the same positions as long as they will 
consent to accept them. 

The officers composing the Executive Committee or 
Board of Managers should be selected for their capacity 
and acquaintance with the Order and the work, and 
never for the purpose of pleasing a friend or bestow- 
ing a favor. 



THE GRAND LODGE. . 51 

The Executive Committee is to act in the place of the 
Grand Lodge in the interim between the sessions, exer- 
cising many of the powers and functions of that body. 
Let this be carefully considered in their election. 

GRAND LODGE MEETINGS. 

In choosing a place of meeting for G. L. sessions, the 
accommodation of the largest number of lodges and 
representatives should be considered. The whole body 
should never be forced to go to a far corner of the ju- 
risdiction simply as a compliment to a town. If the 
most easily accessible point has already had one or more 
G. L. sessions, it should still continue to be selected for 
future sessions as long as the same conditions remain 
unchanged. 

LEGISLATION. 

The By-Laws and regulations of the G. L. should 
never be altered except in obedience to some recognized 
necessity. Like an officer, so a law is better and better 
the longer it serves, unless it proves to be defective in 
its operation, in which case an amendment correcting its 
defects and increasing its efficiency is better than a sweep- 
ing change of the entire system. 

Frequent changes in the law will cause great confu- 
sion in practice among the lodges, and introduce a di- 
versity of action which sooner or later will injure the 
Order. 

Unless imperatively required, changes should not be 
made. Mere forms involving no great principle are 
non-essential. Whatever tends toward the growth, har- 
mony, efficiency, and perpetuity of the Order should be 
fostered. Whatever tends in the opposite direction 
should be eliminated. 



52 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

FIELD WORK. 

It must ever be the policy of vigorous Grand Lodges 
to press the organization of Lodges in unoccupied terri- 
tory. The aim should always be to " close up the lines," 
filling all breaks in the ranks with new working lodges. 
Every lodge is strengthened by having others established 
in its immediate vicinity. An isolated lodge, without 
neighbors from whom it may receive and to whom it 
may pay friendly visits, becomes disheartened. The 
Grand Lodge should encourage such lodges by organiz- 
ing others near them. 

Only nine Grand Lodges in the world have a mem- 
bership equal to or exceeding one per cent of the popu- 
lation. 

Even in Kansas and Iowa, states of the U. S. A. 
where a majority of the citizens declared by vote their 
sympathy with the temperance reform, the Good Tem- 
plar membership in 1882 only numbered 1 in 299 of 
the entire population of Kansas, and 1 in 313 in Iowa, 
while in some jurisdictions the ratio was at that time as 
low as 1 in 2,400 of the population. 

Many localities have maintained for years an average 
membership of 1 in 40 of the population and some even 
a higher ratio. It is believed that with proper work a 
ratio of 1 to 50 of the population of the U. S. and 1 to 
100 in other countries, can be reached and steadily con- 
tinued. 

In order to accomplish this, however, a wise policy on 
the part of Grand Lodge administrations will be impera- 
tively necessary. The " penny-wise-pound-foolish " plan 
has been too frequently adopted. 

If a Grand Lodge becomes involved in debt almost 



THE GRAND LODGE. 53 

the first thought of retrenchment strikes at the field 
work, the last expenditure that ought to be cut down. 

The life of the Order depends on the efficiency of its 
officers, and on its field work ; therefore it should spend 
every available dollar in extending and strengthening 
its lodges, and if necessary increase its per capita tax to 
pay its debts. Judicious economy will pay any G. L. 
debt; but an indiscriminate cutting down of expenses, 
that in the name of economy takes all the laborers out 
of the field and cuts down the pay of its working officers, 
is the most disastrous policy that could be conceived. 

" There is that scatter eth, and yet increaseth; and there 
is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to 
poverty " Prov. xi. 21^. 

In the darkest hour of financial depression it is al- 
ways safe to employ efficient workers and pay them hon- 
est and liberal compensation. The work of a good man 
will result in a net profit, after paying a living salary. 
It is doubtful if it ever pays, in the end, to send out or- 
ganizers with no assured compensation. 

If an officer goes into a town and lectures, presenting 
the claims of Good Templary to public confidence and 
support, and fails to organize a lodge, his work has been 
worth as much and the time occupied has been as valu- 
able to him as though he had succeeded. " Fair com- 
pensation for labor performed " should always be the 
motto of an administration. 

It is sometimes feared that, with an assured salary, 
the organizer will be less energetic and less anxious to 
build new lodges ; that the commission on charter fee he 
is to receive when working without a fixed compensation 
is an inspiration to more zealous efforts. 

In reply it may be safely asserted that the man who 



54 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

will not put forth his best energies when assured fixed 
and reasonable pay is dishonest and should not be em- 
ployed on any terms. If he will not honestly earn a sal- 
ary, he will not honestly earn a commission. If a man 
will not press the work because he can say to himself, 
" I shall get my pay any way," the same man will or- 
ganize merely for the money when paid from charter 
fees, he will crowd the work of organizing, and leave 
behind him hasty and imperfect work, that will always 
be a load for the Grand Lodge to carry ; he will leave 
the impression that the organization he represents is only 
interested in getting money from the people ; in short he 
will do more harm than goad, and few of the Lodges he 
organized will survive longer than a few months. 

We must seek to make our Lodges permanent institu- 
tions in every community where they are established. 
But there can be no guaranty of permanency unless they 
are thoroughly instructed and drilled at the outset, and 
this will only be done by honest workers. 

It is a serious mistake to suppose that it costs the 
Grand Lodge nothing to send out an organizer with no 
other guaranteed compensation than a part of the char- 
ter fee. That kind of work may be the most expensive. 

All the fair villages, cities, and hamlets of a grand 
.jurisdiction are its estate. When it will, it may enter 
into these fields of labor and possess them. Many of them 
have never known of Good Templary and its workings ; 
they are like the virgin forest un felled, or the virgin 
prairie unbroken ; — send a careless woodman to hew down 
the forest, or a dishonest plowman to break the prairie, 
with no assurance of remuneration for his toil except such 
as he can pick up for the present hour, what would be 
the result? A little opening in the forest, half cleared, 



THE GRAND LODGE. 55 

filled with brushwood and growing rank with brambles 
and thorns ; a little upturned prairie sod, springing thick 
with a noisome growth of pestilential weeds. Better let 
the forest remain unbroken till an axman comes to hew 
him out a home, comes to stay. Better the prairie un- 
turned by plow till a hardy pioneer comes to make for 
himself a farm, comes to stay. 

The fair domain of Grand Lodges has too frequently 
had this hasty and destructive tillage. 

To avoid such serious and hurtful mistakes these three 
rules should be adopted and adhered to rigidly : 

1st. Employ honesty capable men only. 

2d. Pay them fixed compensation. 

3d. Require thorough work. 

A newly elected G. W. C. T.,in his anxiety to make a 
good and successful administration may fall into the error 
of supposing that numbers of new lodges will be the 
measure of his success. He therefore sets at work any 
untried adventurer who appears to be capable, or prom- 
ises to organize lodges. 

If he happens to have one or more salaried workers 
under his direction, he crowds them forward, in the vain 
belief that they must be made the most of, and are 
too expensive a luxury to bestow on any one locality for 
more than a single day. 

In this way an experienced worker is often rendered 
almost useless. A brilliant record may be made for a 
while by such a policy, but only disaster follows. 

No organizer should try to institute more than two 
Lodges per week, and it would be even better if he were 
allowed to devote a week to each Lodge. 

It pays the Grand Lodge best to give time for thor- 
ough work. A Lodge organized on a sound basis at 



56 » THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

a cost to the G. L. of $40, will soon return its cost, in 
dues, and will continue paying dues for many years after. 
Two Lodges organized incompletely at a cost of $20 
each, may never pay a quarter's dues, or at most, not 
more than one or two, and thus the G. L. will receive no 
return although an equal amount of money and labor 
was expended. Neither is the temperance cause pro- 
moted. 

The organizer should never be allowed to shift for 
himself and make his own appointments. A good G. W. 
C. T. will seek to acquaiut himself with his jurisdic- 
tion, and if he does his duty in this direction, he is far 
better qualified to determine where, when, and how his 
organizing deputies can best advance the interests of the 
Order than the deputy can be. He should therefore al- 
ways make the appointment and map out the line of 
advance for all his workers. 

If the executive head of the order neglects or fails to 
do this, he is merely a worthless figure-head and de- 
serves to be relegated to obscurity, before he destroys the 
G. L. of which, by unfortunate accident, he may have 
become the chief. 

In making appointments seven things should be 
studied : 

1st. Facilities for reaching each appointment from 
the place of the previous one. 

2d. Expense of reaching. A circuit should be made 
that will avoid going over same ground unnecessarily, 

3d. Boarding places should be arranged for ; either 
free entertainment or to be paid for. 

4th. For appointments oif from stage or railroad 
lines arrangements should be made for conveyance from 
one to the other. 



THE GRAND LODGE. 57 

5th. The running time of trains and stages and boats 
should be ascertained, to determine whether the worker 
can arrive by such conveyances in time to fill his engage- 
ments. 

6th. Unoccupied evenings should be left at the dis- 
posal of the deputy, that he may be enabled to give 
extra time to weaker Lodges. - 

7th. Thorough advertising of public meetings to be 
held by the worker should be done, through handbills, 
church notices, and the local press. 

To facilitate this work the G. W. C. T. should collect 
from the reports of his district deputies and other sources 
and record in a book such information as the following : 

BROWN COUNTY. 

BrownvilLe — County seat. No Lodge. 

Population 5,000, one-sixth Irish, one- third German, rest 

American. 
Churches— M. E., Presbyterian, Congregational, Baptist. 
Railroads — A. & B. (north and south), C. & D. (east and west). 
Stages — To Elmwood and Greendale every day. Leave 6 

A.M. Arrive 7:30 p.m. 
Workers — Rev. A. Harlem, (Congregational pastor), Rev. E. 

Wilbur, (M. E. pastor), Joseph Gale, hardware merchant, 

Wm. Austin, grocer. 
Saloons — Five licensed, two drug stores sell. 

Jonesville — Eight miles south of Brownville. No Lodge. 

Population 400, one-fourth foreign, three-fourths American. 

Churches — Christian United Brethren. 

Railroads — A. & B. 

Stages — To Goodview and Powell, Wednesdays and Satur- 
days; leave 7:30 A.M. From G. and P., Tuesdays and Fri- 
days; arrive 12 noon. 

Workers — Asa Hall, insurance agent; Robert Wales, general 
merchant. 

Saloons — None. One drug store (don't sell much). (See 
letter file 2, No. 185). 



58 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Powell — P. O. Sixteen miles south-west from Jonesville. No 
Lodge. 
Population 50, country around thickly settled. 
Churches — M. E. have services in school house. 
Railroads — None . 

Stages — To Jonesville Tuesdays and Fridays; leaves 7 A. M. 
From Jonesville Wednesdays and Saturdays; arrives noon. 
Workers — Arthur Luke, farmer; Mrs Jane Gray, P. M. 
Saloons — None. Drug stores none. 

Such a record would be of incalculable value to any 
G. W. C. I. It need not to be looked upon as a gi- 
gantic undertaking to prepare it. Let a suitable blank 
book, indexed, be procured. Head page 1 with Brown 
county. Leave as many pages as may seem necessary 
for that county, and then head another page Cedar 
county, and so on till the names of all the counties in 
the jurisdiction are entered in the book, and also in the 
index. After this is done, it will be easy to make en- 
tries of such information as may from time to time be 
received. All this work can be done in less time than 
is often required to hunt over a pile of old letters where 
such information is filed away. If letters contain any ad- 
ditional information not desirable to enter in the record, 
reference can be made to file and number of such letter. 

Let this record be turned over by each G. W. C. T. 
to his successor, and corrections and additions made 
from time to time as required, and not only will much 
valuable time be saved, but more systematic work can 
be planned and executed. 

To obtain the necessary information in the first in- 
stance, blank forms asking the questions on which in- 
formation is desired may be sent to county or district 
deputies with request that they fill them up and return 
to G. W. C. T. at once. 



THE GRAND LODGE. 



59 



With such facts before him, the executive cau with- 
out delay or trouble determine where and how to em- 
ploy the time of his deputies most profitably. 

Blanks should be prepared, which may be filled out 
for a month, and sent to the district deputy, the G. W. 
S., and the local papers in the county where the work is 
to be done, and one like the following sent the deputy 
himself : 

APPOINTMENTS 

of , , Dep. G. W. C. T.,for the month of .,18.. 

f Joseph Gale, hardware merchant, 
Wed. 1. Brownville <■ has made arrangements. Board 

I St. Charles Hotel. 
Thu. 2. 

Fri S Tonesville I Asa Hal1 ' InS * Agt *' arran S ed > and 

*ri. 6 ' Jonesville \ will entertain. 

Sat. 4. 

[6 m. south of Jonesville. Kobert 
Sun. 5. Baldwin \ Wales will drive, over, and find 

( entertainment. 

Mon. 6. 

[4 m. east of Jonesville. Kobert 
Tue. 7. Bell School House. \ Wales will drive over, and find 

[_ entertainment. 

f John Grange, arranged, and will 
Wed. 8. Goodwin \ meet at Bell School House, and 

(. entertain. 
Thu. 9. 

Fri. 10. Armitage. j 5 fc - s ™ th of Goodwin. Grange 

" I will drive. 

Sat. 11, Powell Arthur Luke will entertain. 

Sun. 12. . 

[8 m. north of Powell. Luke will 
Mon. 13. Lakeville -J drive. Amos Mansfield arranged, 

L and will entertain. 
Tue. 14. 

[7 m. from Lakeville. Mansfield 
Wed. 15. Harper -J will drive over. Judge Griggs 

(. entertains. 
Thu. 16. 

t?™- 1 -7 Tv/r™i^o,r f 6 m. east of Harper, on C. & D. K. R. 

Fri. 17. Mowbray | Austin Monk, arranged. 

Sat 18. 



60 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

In new territory where the G. "W". C. T. can get no 
reliable information as to local work and needs, it will 
prove wise economy to employ a reliable man to go over 
the ground in advance, making the appointments and 
gathering information useful and necessary in planning 
and executing future work. He should be required to 
make notes of all important facts bearing on the work. 
Two or three reliable workers should be found at or 
near each post-office, and their names and addresses re- 
ported to the G. W. C. T. 

The deputy, who has his route thus blocked out and 
vacant days left to be used in his discretion, will be 
far more successful than if left to depend on his own re- 
sources, and make his own introductions. 

It is humiliating in the extreme to be compelled to go 
into a community, charged with the responsibility of 
a certain work, and meet the incredulous and unsympa- 
thetic stare of strangers who have never heard of him 
before, and who may feel honest doubts of his integrity 
or authority. 

The same persons might have welcomed him with the 
most cordial kindness if some one of position and standing 
in the Order and in the work had announced his coming. 

The G. W. C. T. has no right to send out a good 

MAN, AND PLACE HIM IN SUCH HUMILIATING POSI- 
TIONS. To do so is to encourage u temperance tramps." 

If responsible and worthy workers are to go about 
unheralded and unannounced, the public will have no 
means of discriminating against unworthy and irrespon- 
sible vagabonds, who are compelled to go about in the 
same way, because no one endorses them. 

The deputies commissioned by the G. W. C. T. repre- 
sent the Independent Order of Good Templars. 



THE GRAND LODGE. 61 

They should be introduced by the officers of that body. 

There should be some persons in the community who, 
having been notified in advance, will be able to say : 
"This man is honest and reliable. He has the endorse- 
ment of the Good Templars. He was sent to us by that 
organization. He does not come on his own responsi- 
bility." 

This will place the worker on a sure footing at once, 
and go far toward establishing confidence and arousing 
public interest in himself and his work. 

By making a series of appointments in adjacent com- 
munities, an interest may be awakened which will reach 
in advance and prepare the way for more successful work. 

By leaving vacant days, arrangements can be made, if 
necessary, to return and finish work for which sufficient 
time has not been allowed. 

By corresponding with local workers and informing 
them just what is wanted, they will be induced to attend 
to details of arrangement, of which they would not have 
taken a thought had it not been suggested. For ex- 
ample, it might never occur to the local workers that the 
deputy would need food or require shelter. They might 
forget that a room suitable for a public meeting must 
be secured and lighted if the service is to be held in the 
evening, or warmed during the colder months. They 
might not remember that means of conveyance would 
be necessary between points not reached by boat, stage, 
or railroad lines. They might imagine that, because 
themselves were aware of the appointment, everybody 
else would know of it, and thus fail to give extended 
notice. 

All these things may be neglected or forgotten by the 
local worker, unless he is reminded of them. 



^ 



t 

62 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. i 

The responsible executive ought never to forget any 
detail, and in making arrangements should see that each 
receives careful attention. An apparently insignj&eant 
trifle has often turned the scale against success. \ 

A printed form of blanks for notifications to jlocal 
workers would be of service and save much labok-'in 
correspondence. 

18... 

Dear Sir — We have arranged to send , our 

lecturer, to your place to give a public address on 

We hope you will urge your people to give our worthy Brother 
a good audience, and I can assure you that they will be entertained 
and instructed. ■ 

Please secure church, hall, or other place most desirable for meet- 
ing and attend to having it opened, warmed, and lighted at the 
proper hour. 

Ask some clergyman to be present and open the meeting with 
prayer. 

Arrange with singers and organist to give at least three songs or 
hymns — temperance if possible. 

Find a comfortable place of entertainment for the speaker. 

Advertise thoroughly. Post handbills. Send notices like 
the following to all the churches to be read at the services the Sab- 
bath previous to the meeting; also similar notices to the public 
schools: 

NOTICE. 

of , lecturer of the I. O. of G. T., will give a 

public address on temperance on at Admission free. 

All are cordially invited. 

Please do not fail to attend to any of these details. 
Write me immediately on receipt of this and let me know if you 
will arrange for the time designated. 

Fraternally. 

, G. W. C. T. 

In case it is not deemed prudent to employ salaried 
organizers, the executive committee should never arrange 
to pay a commission consisting of the entire charter fee. 



THE GRAND LODGE. 63 

Two-thirds, or at least one-half, of the fee should be paid 
into the Grand Lodge treasury. As further compensa- 
tion one-half of each quarter's dues from all Lodges or- 
ganized by him, for two, three, or four quarters may be 
given the organizing officer. Particularly efficient or- 
ganizers who devote their whole time to the work may 
be paid a greater percentage of the first year's dues of 
new Lodges. 

Let it be understood that we pay, not only for estab- 
lishing a Lodge, but for care, attention, and watchful- 
ness over its interests after it is established. 

There are many different circumstances under which 
organizers are compelled to work ; one may be near at 
home, attending to other pursuits, and be able to spend 
a day now and then without loss or detriment to his busi- 
ness, in visiting a neighboring town and establishing a 
new Lodge, incurring no expense in the journey; a sec- 
ond may have occasional days or weeks unemployed, and 
at such times, and at some expense, may be able to do 
some work for Good Templary ; a third may be devoting 
all his time and incurring large expense in building the 
Order. 

It is clear that compensation should be graded in ac- 
cordance with these various conditions. That this may 
be done injustice to all the workers, the Grand Lodge 
should authorize the G. W. C. T.,or the Executive Com- 
mittee, to make special arrangements with deputies for 
such compensation as may be considered just. 

INSTRUCTIONS TO DEPUTIES. 

The G. W. C. T. should prepare and have printed, 
circulars giving full instructions to his deputies of every 
class. These circulars should explain fully the powers 
5 



64 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

and duties of deputies and should give a detailed state- 
ment of the manner in which such duties are to be per- 
formed. 

This instruction is especially necessary for Lodge 
Deputies, as it often happens that the deputy of a new 
Lodge is unacquainted with the work he is expected to 
perform, and is liable to fall into grave errors unless 
fully instructed in the minutest details of his duties. 

SUPPLIES FOR NEW LODGES. 

The outfit furnished a lodge at its institution is fixed 
by regulation of each Grand Lodge, and varies greatly 
in different jurisdictions. It is sometimes far too meagre 
and indicates a short-sighted policy, which, under the 
misnomer, economy, prevails in the body ordering it. 

It never pays to economize by sending out scant supplies. 

The charter fee should be fixed at not less than $15. 
For this charter fee the lodge should be instituted, and 
supplies at least equal to the following be furnished : 

2 Subordinate Rituals. 
1 Degree " 

1 Set Subordinate Officers' Cards (4). 
1 Set Degree " " (8). 

12 " " Ode Cards. 

25 Subordinate " " 
1 Secretary's Record Book. 
1 Book of Blank Orders on Treasurer. 
1 " " Propositions for Membership. 

1 " " Financial Secretary's Receipts. 

1 " " Treasurer's Receipts. 

1 " " Notices of Arrears. 

1 Financial Secretary's Ledger. 
1 " " Evening Receipt Book. 

1 Treasurer's Ledger. 

1 Constitution and Roll Book. (Blank book with Constitution 
printed in front part for members to " sign the Constitution.") 



THE GRAND LODGE. 65 

1 Manual of Parliamentary Law. 
1" Templar at Work." 

12 Sheets Foolscap paper. 
25 Constitutions. 
4 Treasurer's Bond Blanks. 

2 Sets Quarterly Return Blanks. 
1 Charter. 

A full set of supplies like the above represents some- 
thing. The new lodge will at once see that they receive 
something for the money they pay. 

They are unacquainted with the methods and needs of 
the work. They do not, and cannot at first understand 
that a large charter fee is required, and an insignificant 
and inexpensive set of supplies furnished, in order that a 
margin of profit may remain to pay the expenses and 
salary of the organizing officer. They see only the 
goods delivered for $15. This is tangible. If, then, 
the barest skeleton of a set of supplies is furnished, if 
the Secretary finds he cannot record the proceedings 
without more books, if the Financial Secretary finds he 
cannot keep his accounts till a day book and ledger 
are purchased, if the Treasurer discovers that he, too, 
lacks books — in short, if the lodge is compelled to ex- 
pend several dollars for additional supplies, after paying 
what may have seemed to them a large charter fee, there 
will spring up a feeling of distrust and alienation from the 
Grand Lodge, which will be found difficult to overcome. 

It is far wiser policy to institute Lodges at a cost to 
the Grand Lodge of $10 or $20 more than the charter 
fee, than to expect them to pay for their own organiza- 
tion by a niggardly saving on the amount of supplies 
furnished. 

Establish confidence on the part of each new Lodge 
in the Grand Lodge. Teach them to feel that their 



66 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

interests are identical with the interest of that body ; 
that the central organization keeps vigilant watch over 
the Subordinate Lodges, and is ever ready to help them ; 
that the Grand Lodge desires to return value for value 
for every dollar paid into its treasury, in work for the 
cause and Order. 

Let it be felt and understood that each Subordinate 
Lodge is a part of the Grand Lodge; that all the Sub- 
ordinate Lodges of a jurisdiction combined make the 
whole of the Grand Lodge ; not a far off, intangible 
thing that rules for its own benefit and profit, but a 
creature of the Subordinate Lodges for their benefit and 
help, a thing of themselves and for themselves. 

For their own benefit the Subordinate Lodges should 
pay a per capita to their Grand Lodges of twenty-five 
cents per member each quarter. If the Grand Lodge 
is strong financially, the Subordinate Lodges will be 
strong. The Order can never be strong and efficient as 
a whole if its head is crippled by financial embarrass- 
ment, and hindered by lack of adequate resources. 

Give the Grand Lodge proper support and it will be 
able to aid and sustain the weaker lodges ; it will watch 
over their interests, and be ready to provide for their 
necessities. A visit from a G. L. officer at the right 
time will often save the life of a lodge. With scanty 
resources and an empty treasury such visits cannot be 
made, and G. L. officers are compelled to see lodges 
perish for lack of attention they might have given had 
money been provided. 

Let the representatives who assemble in G. L. session 
consider the relations of that body to its Subordinate 
Lodges, and provide it with the necessary means to ful- 
fill its mission. 



CHAPTER V. 



COUNTY AND DISTRICT LODGES. 



The strength of an organization as a whole depends 
largely on the close and intimate association and relations 
of its different branches. Unless a system of work out- 
side the village or neighborhood is devised, members 
may grow to regard local work as the sole aim of the 
society. 

Grand Lodge jurisdictions are usually large. Few 
Grand Lodges hold more than one session in a year. 
Distance from the place and infrequency of sessions will 
always prevent the attendance of a large part of the 
membership of a jurisdiction at Grand Lodge meetings. 

To provide an intermediate body, where members of 
more than one Lodge may meet and exchange views and 
obtain broader ideas of the work, the County and Dis- 
trict Lodges are organized. 

Composed of the Subordinate Lodges of a single 
county or small district, their places of meeting are 
readily accessible to the entire membership within their 
limits, thus benefiting each Lodge by the enthusiasm 
and interest awakened by the larger gathering of Tem- 
plars. 

If any Lodges in the district are found to be weak 
and in need of help, plans for assistance may be matured 
in District Lodge. If they lack thorough instruction, 

[67] 



68 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

it can be furnished. If any Lodge has adopted new- 
methods of adding interest and attractiveness to its meet- 
ings, all may profit by its explanation. If any commu- 
nity where a Lodge exists is making a determined 
struggle against the liquor foe, a united force may be 
promptly brought to their aid. 

Sessions of County and District Lodges are usually 
held once in each quarter. Some districts, however, 
hold their meetings monthly, while others only have 
semi-annual gatherings. This is determined by the cir- 
cumstances in each district. 

The places of holding sessions are fixed by the body, 
usually rotating among the Lodges in various parts of 
the district. 

The Lodge with which the session is held frequently 
provides free entertainment to the visitors from other 
Lodges. Where this is practicable, it adds to the enjoy- 
ment of all, and aids in the establishment of warmer 
and more cordial relations between the members. 

Where the conditions are favorable, Subordinate 
Lodges sometimes form in procession, with various con- 
veyances, with flags and other decorations, and accom- 
panied by a band, drive to the district meeting. While 
these accessories are not absolutely necessary, they are 
very desirable in their influence both upon members and 
non-members, arousing enthusiasm among the former, 
and showing the latter the activity and strength of our 
Order. 

Elaborate preparations are often made for the district 
meetings, and programmes are sent to all the Lodges. 

The four-page circular announcing the tenth session of 
Lodge of Thirteenth District of Wisconsin will give a 
clear outline of the system. 



COUNTY AND DISTRICT LODGES. 69 

PROGRAMME OF THE TENTH CONVENTIONAL SESSION 
OF THE THIRTEENTH DISTRICT, 

Comprising the counties of Racine and Kenosha, to be held in 

UNION LODGE ROOM NO. 275, FRANKSVILLE, WIS., 

On Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway, 

TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY, JAN. 9 AND 10, 1883. 

G. J. Ellis, D. C. T. A. N. Smith, D. S. J. R. Jones, P. D. C. T. 

E. E. Adland, D. V. T. 



RECEPTION COMMITTEE. 

J. E. Bartlett, Jay French, George White, May, French, 

Mrs. B. Smith, Ella Chambers. 

Musical Director — Cora French. 



Our Motto — Faith, Hope, and Charity, Truth, Love, and Purity. 

Our Platform — Prohibition and Total Abstinence. 

Delegates and Members will be met by the Reception Committee 

at the depot and Lodge room. 



FRANKSVILLE, WlS., DEC. 9, 1882. 

To the Lodges of the Thirteenth District Convention, I. 0. G. T. : 

Officers and Members — It has been decided to hold the next 
semi-annual convention on the 9th and 10th of January, 1883. It 
will be held with Union Lodge No. 275, at their hall in the base- 
ment of the Union Church, at Franksville. It is to be hoped and 
expected that all the Lodges in the district (and particularly the 
new Lodges in Kenosha county) will be represented at this conven- 
tion. 

Suitable tables, spread with provisions, will be provided by the 
members of Union Lodge for the members in attendance. 

The annexed programme will serve to show the important ques- 
tions which will come before the convention and the great interest 
that will naturally arise from their discussion. The G. W. C. T., 
Theo. D. Kanouse (who is one of our ablest speakers), will be in 
attendance. 

The blank convention reports you will please fill out and bring 
with you, and if for any reason a Lodge cannot be represented, the 
Secretary will oblige the committee by forwarding the report to 
the Secretary, A. N. Smith, Kacine, Wis., to be of service at the 
convention. 



70 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

A tax of 5 cents per member must accompany the report, to 
create a fund for convention work. 

Now, Brothers and Sisters, we urge you to drop everything at 
which you are engaged and come early to this meeting and make 
the 9th and 10th of January grand days in the history of the Order 
in the Thirteenth District. 

The convention will be opened promptly at 10 o'clock a.m., Tues- 
day, Jan. 9th, 1883. 

Fraternally submitted, 

G. J. ELLIS, D. C. T. 



PROGRAMME, TUESDAY, JANUARY 9, 1883. 
Morning Session — 10 a.m. 
10:00 A.M. — Call to order and opening ceremonies. 
10:15 A.M. — Appointing Committee on Credentials. 

Recess. 
10:45 A.M. — Report of Committee on Credentials. 
11:00 A.M. — Appointing of Standing Committee. 
11:15 A.M. — Call of Lodges. 
11:30 A.M. — Recitation : J. Hanson, No. 458. 
11:45 a.m. — Reports of Officers. 
12:00 M. — Music. Recess for dinner. 

Afternoon Session, 1:30 p.m. 
1:30 P.M. — Reading journal. 

1:45 P.M. — Address of Welcome : J. E. Bartlett, of No. 275. 
2:00 P.M.— Response • G. W. C. T., T. D. Kanouse. 
2.15 p.m. — Music : Sister Spencer, No. 358. 
2:30 p.m.— Declamation : S. G. Smith, No. 275. 
2:45 p.m. — Discussion : " What are the best Methods for Procuring 

Prohibition? " Opened by J. C. Davis, No. 358; J. Hanson, No. 

458; Rev. R. W. Bosworth, No. 23; C. B. Gaines, No. 101; J. 

E. Bartlett, No. 275; H. A. Graves, No. 130. 
3:15 p.m. — Music and general business. 
3:30 P.M. — Reports of Standing Committees. 
3:45 p.m.— Recess. 
4:00 P.M.— Paper : " What Constitutes a Good Templar?" May 

French, No. 275. 
4:15 p.m. — Discussion of the same; Opened by Mrs. Ida Robbins, 

No. 35; Chas. Mead, No. 63; J. R. Jones, No. 275; C. W.Roberts, 

No. 130; W. M. Adland, No. 458; Wm. Gittings, No. 275. 



COUNTY AND DISTRICT LODGES. 71 

4:45 p.m.— Declamation: Bro. Tennie, No. 458. 
5:00 p.m. — Music. Closing Ceremonies at 5 p.m. 
Public meeting at 7 P.M. Lecture by Bro. Theo. D. Kanouse, G. 
W. C. T. Close at will. 

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 10. 
Moening Session, 9:30 a.m. 
9:30 A.M. — Reading minutes of last session. 
9:45 A.M. — Reports of committees. 
10:00 a.m. — Call of Lodges continued. 
10:15 a.m. — General business. 
10:30 A.M. — Music. Recess. 

10:45 A.M. — Election and Installation of Officers. 
11:30 A.M. — Music. Good of the Order. 
12:00 M. Recess for dinner. 

Afternoon Session, 1:15 p.m. 
1:30 p.m.— Essay: Bro. Bennett, No. 275. 

1:45 p.m.— Discussion: " Has the Organization of the Prohibition 
Party been a Detriment to the State and Country?" Opened 
by A. T. Gould, No. 358; Jay French, O. W. Owens, Geo. White, 
A. N. Smith, of No. 275; Adam Apple, Jr., No. 458; T. Place, 
W. L. Monroe, No. 351; Bro. Collier, No. 358; J.H. Summerton. 
G. J. Ellis, No. 275. 
2:30 p.m. — Music. Recess. 
2:45 P.M. — Exemplifying the unwritten work of the Order. By 

Bro. T. D. Kanouse, G. W. C. T. 
3:00 p.m. — Music. 

3:15 p.m. — Reports of committees and general business. 
3:30 p.m. — Fixing place of next meeting. 
3:45 p.m. — Good of the Order. 
4:00 p.m. — Reading journal. 

Closing Cekemonies. » 

G. J. ELLIS, 
A. N. SMITH, 
E. E. ADLAND, 
Committee. 

A blank form of report prepared by Eunice Hooper, 
G. W. Counselor of Illinois, and sent to the Lodges to 
fill out and send to the district meeting, contains many 
good points : 



72 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

REPORT OF 

LODGE NO I. O. G. T., located at 

County, Illinois, from last session of District 

Lodge to August 10th, 1882. 



When Organized 

By Whom 

Charter Membership 

Present Membership 

No. of voters Initiations during last term 

No. Expelled No. Suspended 

Number of open meetings 

Average attendance at regular Lodge meeting 

Drinking men reclaimed during last term 

How many dram shops in your city 

How many churches How many teachers in schools 

Have you tried to organize new Lodges Places where new 

Lodges might be organized 

Amount in treasury , $ Indebtedness, $ How many 

temperance papers do you take How many of the candi- 
dates in your legislative district will vote to submit an amend- 
ment to the Constitution prohibiting the liquor traffic to the peo- 
ple..... Representatives to District Lodge 

Secretary. 

W.C.T. 



The County Executive Committee, or a special com- 
mittee appointed for that purpose, prepares the pro- 
gramme of exercises. 

A chairman of such special committee is sometimes 
designated, and a committee consisting of one member 
from each Lodge is appointed, who shall notify the chair- 
man, at least thirty days before D. L. session, what part 
his Lodge will take in the programme. 

A banner is sometimes provided, and a contest for its 
possession occurs during the session, the lodge having 
the largest number of members present at a certain hour 
previously fixed being entitled to hold the banner until 



COUNTY AND DISTRICT LODGES. 73 

the next session. The lodge with which the session is 
being held is required to have at least ten or perhaps 
twenty, or even thirty more members present at the hour 
than any other, in order to secure the banner, as their 
facilities for securing a large attendance are better than 
those of other lodges. 

PICNICS AND GROVE MEETINGS. 

During summer a picnic or grove meeting may be held, 
the lodges uniting in making the arrangements and in- 
viting the public to be present to participate. 

A short programme should be provided. Let care be 
exercised in its preparation. If too long it will weary. 
It should be just long enough to give variety to the re- 
creation of the day. One or two good speakers may 
give short addresses ; two or three good recitations may 
be given, and plenty of music interspersed through the 
day. Of the latter, if good, there is little danger of too 
much being provided. 

Let it be constantly kept in view, that the picnic is not 
wholly for missionary work, but for pure recreation, in- 
nocent amusement, and the development of nobler and 
better social life. In such gatherings, the social feature 
must be prominent. 

Picnics ought not to interefere with or take place of 
regular district lodge meetings. They should rather 
supplement th& regular work, and be used as one of the 
means of demonstrating that sober, virtuous lives are 
more replete with genuine pleasures than any vice-tainted 
life can be. 

OFFICERS. 

The officers of district are usually elected for a year. 
During that time they will have many opportunities to 



74 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

help the Order. If they are intelligent and earnest they 
will advance the interests of the lodges during their 
term of service. 

The District Secretary should be prompt in his com- 
munications, allowing ample time for delays of mails, 
temporary absence from home of Subordinate Lodge 
officers addressed, and other causes which would prevent 
the lodge from receiving notices in time to be of use to 
them. 

Much of the instruction which applies to officers of 
Subordinate Lodge will apply to similar officers in Dis- 
trict Lodge. 

The county executive committee, composed usually of 
certain officers ex-qffieio, may divide the district into 
convenient sub-divisions, each officer assuming charge 
of a certain number of lodges, paying them occasional 
visits, and looking after their welfare. 

The district deputy should be appointed for his qual- 
ifications as a worker. His duties are explained in 
Chapter VI. 

All G. L. officers in whose jurisdictions the district 
or county lodge system is in operation, testify to its ben- 
eficial effects. Let it be extended and improved. 



PART II. 



OF THE 

SUBORDINATE LODGE, ITS ORGANIZATION 

AND 

METHODS OF WORK. 



[75] 



CHAPTER VI. 



ORGANIZING OFFICERS. 



Lodges are organized by the Grand Worthy Chief 
Templar, or by deputies appointed by him. 
Organizing deputies are of three classes : 
1st. State or provincial. 
2d. District or county. 
3d. Special. 

I. STATE OR PROVINCIAL DEPUTY G. W. C. T ? S. 

State or provincial deputies are few in number. They 
are usually authorized to work throughout the Grand 
Lodge jurisdiction in which they are commissioned, and 
under the direction of the G. W. C. T. 

Their work is more especially of a missionary charac- 
ter ; planting the order in localities where it does not 
already exist, and where it is little known or under- 
stood. That the Order may not suffer or lose standing 
by being misrepresented by these officers a few funda- 
mental principles are laid down as necessary to consider 
in choosing such deputies. 

The G. W. C. T. should appoint no persons as state 
or provincial deputies except such as are thoroughly 
imbued with the principles of the reform, and have 
coolness and judgment. 

[77] 



78 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

1st. They should be men of undoubted integrity and 
character. The Order cannot afford to employ any per- 
son whose morality and honesty are questionable. 

2d. They should be thoroughly acquainted with Good 
Templar laws and usages. Strangers and new converts 
should never be commissioned as state or provincial dep- 
uties. If a G. W. C. T. desires to employ such persons 
it should be for special work only, and then under his 
own immediate supervision. Reformed men often be- 
come excellent workers, but they should be thoroughly 
tested before being placed in responsible positions in the 
Order. Men of real worth will make their mark. Men 
who have faith in themselves will never be offended 
at being put on probation, 

3d. They should have the ability to discuss the whole 
subject of the temperance reform before the public, 
and to present clearly the aims, objects, and methods of 
Good Templar work. Ignorance on these points would 
lead the public to believe the deputy to be a fraud, or 
the organization he represents a humbug. Nothing will 
inspire the confidence of the people more surely than a 
thorough knowledge of the Order, and a ready presenta- 
tion of its claims. 

4th. They should be so enlisted in the work as to be 
willing to give it time and labor, thought and study. 
It would be as reasonable to license an infidel to preach 
the gospel, as to commission a temperance worker whose 
heart is not in the work. 

5th. They should have previous experience in or- 
ganizing new lodges. If they have done thorough work 
in the past they can be trusted. No man whose past 
work has been loose and careless should ever receive 
another commission. No state or provincial deputy 



ORGANIZING OFFICERS. 79 

should ever be commissioned as a personal favor, or as 
a matter of compliment. 

II. DISTRICT AND COUNTY DEPUTIES 

are appointed to exercise special supervision over the 
work within their respective counties or districts. They 
are expected to examine the territory in their charge so 
as to be able to make appointments for, and render other 
assistance to, any organizing officer the G. W. C. T. 
may send to their localities. They are also authorized 
to organize lodges in their respective districts. In this 
work they are often inexperienced, and their only re- 
commendation for the position to which they are ap- 
pointed may be their willingness to perform any duty 
devolving upon them, if they can be shown the way. 

They should therefore first endeavor to thoroughly 
acquaint themselves with the fundamental principles 
of the temperance reform, its history, methods, and im- 
portance. 

They should study thoroughly the Good Templar 
platform, constitution, by-laws, and rules, and they 
must familiarize themselves with every part of the 
ritual. It is also necessary that they be acquainted 
with methods of organizing so as to be prompt and 
expeditious in that work whenever called upon to per- 
form it. 

Let the watchword of every deputy be, " Thorough 
study, vigilant watchfulness, bold action." 

Each county or district contains several precincts, 
townships, or other subdivisions. The deputy should 
seek to find some friend of temperance in each of these 
localities with whom he can at all times correspond, 
and from whom he can learn the social condition and 
6 



80 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

needs of the people. Such friend will assist him in 
making appointments for speakers sent out under di- 
rection of the G. "W. C. T., and would no doubt intro- 
duce him to other temperance men who will assist in 
organizing a lodge, or even without his aid secure the 
necessary number of petitioners for a charter. 

It is highly important that these deputies should be 
able to point out at a moment's notice a worker in any 
part of their district. If they can do nothing else they 
can do this. 

The G. W. C. T. cannot acquaint himself with every 
neighborhood or school district except through them. 
His deputies must do this or he cannot arrange the work 
throughout his Grand jurisdiction so that the best re- 
sults may be accomplished. 

The list of temperance workers in his district should 
contain one name for every neighborhood or at least one 
jor every post-office. If he send this list to the G. W. 
C. T. promptly, and keep a copy of it for his own use, 
both officers will be in possession of information that 
will be constantly needed in the performance of their 
duties. 

The district deputy should visit the lodges in his 
county or district as often as possible, certainly every 
three months, and assist them in their work, explain 
points of law or usage they may not understand, and 
urge strict observance of regulations of the Order. 

The lodges are helped more perhaps than they them- 
selves realize by these visits of officers whose duty it is 
to look after their welfare. 

The district deputy should also report to the G. W. 
C. T. every quarter the condition of each lodge in his 
district, giving the results of his own observations, add- 



ORGANIZING OFFICERS. 81 , 

itig any suggestions in regard to the relations of the 
lodges to the communities in which they are established, 
and how those relations may be improved. 

III. SPECIAL DEPUTIES. 

Special deputies are appointed to do certain specified 
work, designated in their commissions. 

Like all other deputies of the Grand Worthy Chief 
Templar, they should be true and zealous Good Tem- 
plars. Because their field of work is limited it might 
be supposed that less careful scrutiny of the character of 
the member to be commissioned would suffice, yet it 
will be remembered that error is less likely to creep into 
our work by excess of caution than by lack of it. 

Sterling integrity should be sought for every place, 
even the humblest, where the man is to be the repre- 
sentative of the Order. No matter how little he may 
have to do officially he will, to some at least, become 
the embodiment of the principles of Good Templary. 

Let the honor of the organization be safe in the hands 
of every trusted servant. 

The G. W. C. T. should require all his organizing 
deputies to make regular and complete reports to the 
chief and G. Sec. Carelessness and inaccuracy in re- 
ports indicate the same thing in the work. One whose 
work is thorough will naturally make exact reports. 

The mental discipline demanded by conformity to 
strict rules in organizing and reporting will be of great 
value to the worker and add to the efficiency of the 
work. 

Several Grand Lodges, among which is the Grand 
Lodge of New York, have thoroughly systematized the 
work of their organizers and lecturers. Report blanks 



82 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

are furnished, and they are required to make full state- 
ments at the end of each month of all their work, 

In this report they are required to give statement of 
place where and kind of work done for each day in the 
month ; number of new lodges instituted and old ones 
revived ; number of lectures delivered ; number and 
amount of collections taken ; number of members added 
to the Order in old, new, and revived lodges ; and all 
other particulars of the month's work. 

The plan of compensation for organizers in operation 
for several years in N. Y., is explained in the resolu- 
tions of the board of managers, Nov. 6th, 1879: 

First. Each lecturer shall be wholly under the control and di- 
rection of the board of managers, and during such employment 
shall devote his entire time to the service of the Order. 

Second. They shall receive the following compensation for their 
services, viz.: All lodge charter fees, and a further fee of ten dol- 
lars for the institution of each lodge, such fee of ten dollars to be- 
come due and payable immediately after the first quarterly returns 
of the new lodge, and the receipt by the G. W. S. of its first quar- 
terly Grand Lodge dues; and in the event of such compensation so 
received for institution of new lodges falling short of $100 per month, 
then the Grand Lodge shall compensate said lecturers at the rate of 
five dollars for each lecture delivered where no new lodge shall be 
instituted, until such compensation shall aggregate $100 per month. 

Third. A collection shall be taken at the close of each lecture 
for the benefit of the Grand Lodge Treasury, the amount to be re- 
turned to the G. W. Secretary, and by him credited to a special 
lecture fund of the Grand Lodge, and the receipt of the same to be 
duly acknowledged in the official organ of the Order. The whole 
amount received however, at any one place from such collection to 
be donated to the Subordinate Lodge if one shall be instituted by 
such lecturer at said place. Before the taking of such collection 
the lecturer shall fully explain to the meeting the object of the col- 
lection, and the use to be made of the funds when received. 

The organization of each new lodge should be reported 
without delay to the G. W. C. T. and G. W. S. If a 



ORGANIZING OFFICERS. 83 

lodge is instituted each day, then a report should be sent 
to these officers each day. A blank printed form, sim- 
ilar to the following, is furnished to organizers by nearly 
all G. W. Secretaries : 

REPORT OF ORGANIZATION 



Date of organization 

P. O. Address, 

County, 

Number of Applicants for Charter, 

received into Lodge by Card, 

" " " Initiation, 
Recommended for L. D., 



OFFICERS INSTALLED. 

W. C. T 

W. V. T., 

Secretary, 

Assistant Secretary, 

Financial Secretary, 

Treasurer, , 

Chaplain, 

Marshal, 

Deputy M., 

Guard, 

Sentinel, 

R. H. S., 

L.H. S., 

P. W. C. T., 



MEMBERS (NOT INCLUDING OFFICERS) I 

I certify that the above report is correct. 



, Organizing Officer. 

The G. W. C. T. and G. W. S. will file these reports 
for ready reference, and will find them of great value. 



CHAPTER VII. 



THE ORGANIZATION OF NEW LODGES. 



WHEN TO ORGANIZE. 

At least ten persons must signify their desire to be- 
come members before a lodge can be instituted. It does 
not follow that a lodge should be started wherever ten 
or more persons have thus signified such a desire. 

Instances occur where ten members would make a 
good foundation for permanent and successful work. If 
they are men and women of influence, integrity, and in- 
domitable energy and perseverance, and undertake the 
work of forming a lodge with faith in its success, there 
need be no fears of the results. Failure would be almost 
impossible with such spirits in the van. 

Other instances occur w^here success would not be as- 
sured with thirty or even fifty charter members. Un- 
stable, wild, and vacillating dispositions can never make 
strong lodges, no matter how many of them may join. 

Great care should be observed in the outset. Num- 
bers do not always constitute strength. 

A few persons of settled principles, firm faith, un- 
wavering courage, and untiring zeal, are worth more in 
any cause than mere numbers of nonentities who possess 
neither zeal, courage, nor convictions. 

While it is an important part of the mission of Good 
Templary to establish principles, inspire faith in the 

[84] 



ORGANIZATION OF NEW LODGES. 85 

cause, awaken the popular conscience, and nerve the arm 
of citizenship to strike brave blows for truth and hu- 
manity, it must be remembered that brain and heart 
must first be enlisted in our service ere we can hope to 
accomplish such grand results. 

The first requisite in starting a lodge is character. 
The Christian, moral, and intellectual forces of a com- 
munity are needed. They alone can so shape its policy 
and efforts as to reflect credit upon the cause, and pro- 
mote the great interests that Good Templary represents. 

A large lodge without these substantial elements may 
begin to decline from the very hour of its organization. 
No work it can do in the few months of its feeble exist- 
ence can compensate for the damage to the cause of tem- 
perance, and to the Order as well, from having a temper- 
ance organization die in the midst of a community where 
a few weeks or months before its birth was heralded with 
huzzas. 

In most localities, twenty-five members at the institu- 
tion of a lodge would be better than fifty. This is es- 
pecially true in small towns or thinly settled districts. 

There are always some persons who unite with the or- 
ganization without fully realizing the extent of the la- 
bors and duties involved in membership. When these 
duties begin to press upon them their burden of respon- 
sibility, such members are found wanting, and drop out 
of the ranks. If most of the available material of a 
community has been incorporated in a lodge at its insti- 
tution, these losses cannot be made good, and even cour- 
ageous members will feel despondent. If the recruits 
are plenty, and new members are brought in from time 
to time, the places of the lazy and timid ones w r ho drop 
out are filled, and the lodge really grows stronger even 



86 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

while its aggregate membership is nominally the same as 
at the outset. 

Another reason for preferring the smaller number of 
charter applicants is found in the fact that it is much 
more difficult to reduce the larger number to strict con- 
formity with our laws and obligations. Take for ex- 
ample two lodges where no members of either have had 
previous experience in the work. The lodge of fifty 
will contain some who do not fully comprehend the ne- 
cessity for the requirements of Good Templar rules and 
usage. Among so many a slight deviation from estab- 
lished usage would be less likely to be observed, and 
would grow and spread among the members until a gen- 
eral looseness and disregard of discipline would pervade 
the whole lodge. 

The smaller number become more intimately associ- 
ated, and a familiar interchange of thought gives the 
thoughtless and weaker ones a better idea of the require- 
ments and aims of the Order, and unite all in closer har- 
mony with its spirit and design.* 

THE FIRST GREAT OBJECT 

in the organization of Good Templar lodges is the ad- 
vancement of the temperance reform. This purpose must 
be kept steadily in view. No other incentive will ever 
inspire the faith and courage that bring success. 

No personal ambition or local pride should ever influ- 
ence an officer to establish a lodge where there is no 
reasonable prospect of usefulness or permanence. 



* After a lodge has been established for some time the proportion 
of members who understand and will cheerfully obey its laws 
constantly grows larger. If the membership then grows large there 
is no danger. The loyal element will be able to maintain itself. 



ORGANIZATION OF NEW LODGES. 87 

A deputy may desire to present a good record of work 
done during the year, but he is utterly unworthy of his 
trust if he will permit this ambition to blind his judg- 
ment or silence his conscience. 

Honest work will bring its sure reward. Hasty, ill— 
performed, and dishonest work will only vex and finally 
break down the character of any man or woman who 
performs it. One solid lodge that will live and work 
for years will be more creditable to its founder than half 
a dozen ephemeral creations, made to gratify ambition 
and selfish pride. 

Finally, let the deputy feel that he represents the G. 
W. C. T. and the Order ; that error and indiscretion on 
his part may place the grand and self-sacrificing brother- 
hood and sisterhood of Good Templars in a false light 
before the world ; that integrity and fidelity are the only 
watchwords of sure success ; that a victory won or an 
end achieved by falsehood and deceit will terminate in 
shame and dishonor ; that a humble position in the Or- 
der or in the world with a consciousness of rectitude and 
honor, is of more worth than the highest place without 
that consciousness ; and that all the splendor of earthly 
fame is but a meteor glare beside the undying light of 
immortal glory. 

LECTURES. 

Where public meetings are held to arouse the people 
to action before starting the lodge, the first evening 
should be devoted to a presentation of the salient fea- 
tures of the reform, its history, growth, and needs. Re- 
formed men who occupy the platform should be discour- 
aged from the constant recital of their own debaucheries 
and past debasement. If they cannot rise above this, if 



88 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

they confine themselves wholly to this line of thought, 
it indicates a narrowness of vision, and a greatly inade- 
quate conception of the temperance problems of the age. 

At a second public meeting it would be well to pre- 
sent facts regarding the extent, wealth, and political 
power of the liquor business ; its thorough and wide- 
spread organization ; its plans and methods of work ; its 
ultimate design ; its lavish expenditure of money to se- 
cure desired ends, and its constant and vigilant 'watch- 
fulness over its own interests. 

Following this, the necessity of active and united ef- 
forts on the part of the friends of temperance may be 
readily pointed out and urged. The history and achieve- 
ments of the Order would appropriately close the lec- 
ture, and show the public that Good Templary is pre- 
eminently fitted to supply the needs of the reform by 
constantly recruiting an active and aggressive force to 
combat the enemy. 

A partial organization may be effected at the close of 
such a meeting, but must not be completed. The next 
evening if possible should be given to the completion of 
the institution, and under no circumstances should this 
be delayed longer than one week. 

Not less than two evenings are allowed to be given to 
the work of institution. 

It is not necessary to hold public meetings before in- 
stitution. Very useful and flourishing lodges are often 
established by quiet work in a community. 

The lecturer, after his first meeting, should secure the 
company of some prominent citizen, whose sympathies 
are with us, and visit the people in their homes and 
places of business, talking with them on the subject of 
Good Templary, and canvassing their objections. 



ORGANIZATION OF NEW LODGES. 89 

He will thus be enabled to remove all groundless prej- 
udices, and prepare the minds of the people for the de- 
sired work 

PETITIONING FOR A CHARTER. 

Any person interested in the work of our Order may 
procure from the Grand Worthy Secretary a blank ap- 
plication for a charter, or he may write one after the 
following form : 

INDEPENDENT ORDER OF GOOD TEMPLARS. 

APPLICATION FOR CHARTER FOR NEW LODGE. 

The undersigned , inhabitants of , believing the 

Independent Order of Good Templars well calculated to extend the 
blessings of Total Abstinence, and promote the general we fare of 
Mankind, respectfully petition the Grand Lodge of the Independ- 
ent Order of Good Templars of to grant them 

A CHARTER TO OPEN A NEW LODGE, 

to be called Lodge, No of the I. O. of G. T., located 

in , county of (colony, province, state, kingdom 

or empire of) , and under your jurisdiction. 

We pledge ourselves individually and collectively to be governed 
by the rules and usages of the Grand Lodge. 

Enclosed is fee for charter and institution supplies, $ Ap- 
plication must contain ten names or more. 

Having secured ten or more bona fide signatures, the 
friend who circulated the petition should enclose appli- 
cation and fee to the G. W. Sec, who will immediately 
arrange to send a proper officer to organize the lodge. 

Much good may be accomplished by means of such 
petitions. 

A member of a lodge may desire to help the work and 
extend the influence of the Order. If he is neither lec- 
turer nor organizer, he sees no way open before him for 
helpful labor outside the lodge room. He has friends or 



90 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

acquaintances in an adjoining precinct, town, or village. 
It has no lodge of Good Templars. Here is his field. 
He can take his blank application and secure enough 
names to insure an organization with little trouble. The 
collection of the charter fee may be left till the deputy is 
sent to complete the work, but it is best to collect it in 
advance. 

If members will make a proper effort in this direction 
vast good will be accomplished. 

REQUISITES FOR INSTITUTING OFFICERS. 

The organizing deputy should be supplied with a 
complete set of lodge supplies in advance, that he may 
be enabled to turn over to the new lodge its supplies at 
the time of its organization. All regular deputies can 
obtain these supplies from the Grand Worthy Secretary 
on some terms mutually satisfactory. 

The lodge should not be compelled to depend on the 
uncertain contingencies of mails or express for the neces- 
sary books and papers to carry on their next meeting. 
It is more business-like in appearance to deliver the sup- 
plies when they are paid for, and will better satisfy the 
lodge. 

It will also enable the deputy to explain more clearly 
the duties of each officer, and exhibit to each the cards 
and rituals which are to aid him in the performance of 
those duties. 

To expedite the work of organizing, the deputy 
should provide himself in advance with a quantity of 
paper cut into slips for ballots, so that the election of 
officers may not be delayed in their preparation. 



ORGANIZATION OF NEW LODGES. 91 

INSTITUTING. 

When the necessary names are secured, an evening 
will be appointed for organization. If it is convenient, 
the deputy will secure the assistance of four or more 
well posted members of the Order on the evening de- 
signated. 

When the petitioners and others have assembled, the 
deputy will call the meeting to order, and state to those 
present that they are convened for the purpose of organ- 
izing a Good Templar lodge. He should not make a 
long speech, nor extended remarks, as the work before 
them, if properly performed, will require all the available 
time of a single evening. 

After the introductory remarks, the deputy will pro- 
ceed to ask all present to sign the application for a char- 
ter. If there be any who will not give their names, or 
do not wish to unite with the lodge, they must be kindly 
requested to retire from the room. 

The questions required to be asked by the P. W. C. 
T. before initiation, will then be asked by the deputy, 
and must all be answered in the affirmative by each per- 
son who remains, or he cannot be initiated. Persons 
not answering these questions satisfactorily must retire. 

The deputy must not forget that kindness, courtesy, 
and gentleness in dealing with the public will accom- 
plish far more than harshness or haughty assumption of 
authority. There are often persons present at the time ap- 
pointed for organization, who have no intention of becom- 
ing members, who come merely to seek opportunities to 
disturb and annoy. The discovery of such intent cannot 
but arouse the indignation of all who love justice and 
fairness, order and decency. But it is better to check 



92 THE TEMPLAR AT WOHK. . 

the rising feeling, and strive by mild words to excite 
the latent sense of shame in the turbulent spirits. In- 
stances where these measures utterly fail are very rare. 

When all have retired except those who are willing to 
proceed, a temporary Financial Secretary, and one or 
two assistants if necessary, should be appointed by the 
deputy, who will instruct them to proceed to collect the 
initiation fee from all present, unless they have previ- 
ously paid, keeping accurate account of all who pay, and 
the amount* 

If a sufficient number of members of the Order are 
present they may be placed in the office of W. V. T., 
Chap., P. W. C. T., and Marshal, the deputy acting as 
W. C. T., and the initiation proceeding in the usual 
form. 

If the deputy is the only member of the Order pres- 
ent, he will proceed to administer the obligation (all not 
wishing to join having previously left the room) in the 
regular form. He will then explain the charges given 
by the Chaplain, Worthy Vice Templar, and Past Worthy 
Chief Templar in the regular initiatory ceremony, so that 
the lodge may know how to conduct future initiations. " 

All the newly initiated members must then sign the 
constitution, after which the deputy will proceed to ex- 
plain fully the unwritten work of the Subordinate De- 
gree, and then declare them members of the lodge. 

The election of officers for the first term will then be 
proceeded with. Many of the members will be totally 
unacquainted with lodge work, the deputy will therefore 
give a list of the offices to be filled, briefly explaining 
the duties of each. This will enable the lodge to select 
for each office some member who is qualified to fulfill 
its duties. For the officers who take part in the initia- 



ORGANIZATION OF NEW LODGES. 93 

tory ceremony, the best readers should be selected. The 
deputy should explain the reasons for this requirement, 
showing the necessity for ready and prompt work at in- 
itiation. 

The officers must be elected one by one in the follow- 
ing order : 

Worthy Chief Templar. 

Worthy Vice Templar. 

Secretary. 

Financial Secretary. 

Treasurer. 

Chaplain, 

Marshal. 

Guard. 

Sentinel. 

The W. C. T. appoints his Right Hand Supporter 
and L. H. S. The Secretary appoints an assistant Sec- 
retary, and the Marshal appoints a deputy. 

When these officers have made their appointments, 
and reported them to the secretary, the instituting deputy 
will immediately proceed to install all the officers, both 
elective and appointed. 

He must appoint a Past Worthy Chief Templar, who 
holds the position until the W. C. T. becomes Past W. 
C. T. upon the election and installation of his successor. 

The lodge must then be called up, and the deputy will 
proclaim the institution completed by use of the form 
found in the ritual. 

The new W. C. T. will at once proceed with the per- 
formance of his duties as presiding officer. It is mis- 
taken kindness on the part of the instituting deputy to 
continue in the chair after installation. The W. C. T. 
will probably request him to remain, but he can render 
far better assistance to that officer and to the lodge by 



94 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

taking his seat among the members and offering needed 
suggestions and corrections. 

The deputy must see that the necessary rules and by- 
laws are adopted, and other important business is prop- 
erly disposed of at this meeting. 

1st. A name must be selected for the lodge. (Con- 
stitution, Art. 1, sec. 1.) 

Never name a lodge after a living person. No matter what his 
present position may be — no matter how true and faithful and con- 
stant his work may have been, something may occur that will cause 
regret that his name was chosen. 

If names are to be honored, the noble dead, who lived, who died 
true to the Good Templar cause, furnish names honorable and above 
the possibility of stain, that will crown any lodge with a halo of 
light. 

Unless another lodge already has the name, or it would otherwise 
be inappropriate, the name of the post-office at which the officers and 
members receive their mail should be selected. " Joy," " Laurel," 
"Evergreen," " Never Surrender," "Hold the Fort," etc., may be 
very pretty and strike the fancy of some members, but they do not 
mean anything, or indicate anything to the Order, while the name 
of the town in which the lodge is located, or if in the country its 
nearest post-office, will indicate its locality, and prevent confusion 
in sending mail. 

2d. A member must be recommended to the G. W. 

C. T. for the appointment to the position of Lodge 

Deputy. 

If there be any member who has had previous experience in lodge 
work, he should be recommended. If there be no such, some mem- 
ber may be selected who is possessed of high character, sound j udg- 
ment, coolness, and discretion. In case the lodge fail to select such 
a person, and recommend instead one whose appointment would 
prove disastrous, the organizing deputy should write the G. W. C. 
T., stating all the facts and suggesting the name of some member 
better qualified for the position. 

3d. A by-law must be adopted fixing the night of 
meeting. 



ORGANIZATION OF NEW LODGES. 95 

Several questions will influence the selection of a regular meet- 
ing night. 

(a) The nights already occupied by society and church meetings 
should be avoided as far as possible. 

(b ) The evenings on which neighboring lodges meet should be 
considered. 

(c) The convenience of the members must be consulted. 

4th. A by-law should be adopted fixing a regular 
hour for opening and an hour for closing, and permit- 
ting the time for closing to be extended only by motion 
and regular vote. 

There are very few instances where the hour for closing a lodge 
should be fixed later than ten o'clock. 

It may be urged that the members desire to remain in session to 
a later hour. This does not prove its wisdom. There will always 
be older persons who cannot well remain later than ten. Insisting 
on holding sessions beyond that hour will, sooner or later, drive 
these persons from the lodge. Indeed, the very members who 
clamor for the long sessions will tire of the late hours, and begin to 
blame the organization for the weariness they have inflicted upon 
themselves. 

5th. The permanent initiation fee must be fixed as 
well as the fee for admission " by card/' and the fee to 
be charged for the issuing of " clearance" and "travel- 
ing " cards, and the amount to be paid by each member 
for quarterly dues. 

Each lodge fixes these fees, but cannot fix them at any less sum 
than its Grand Lodge prescribes, nor can it admit members with- 
out payment of any fee. The probable expenses of the lodge will 
govern in fixing the required fees. 

The Secretary must keep accurate and careful records 
of all the motions relating to the above points, and of all 
other transactions of this first meeting, and enter them 
in full on the permanent record book of the lodge. In 
addition to this, he should fill out the blanks in one copv 

7 



96 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

of the constitution and by-la ws, and paste this copy firm- 
ly into his record book, where it can always be readily 
found and referred to. The blanks should also be filled 
out in the Financial Secretary's constitution and roll 
book. 

The W. C. T. must appoint such standing committees 
to serve during his term, as the by-laws adopted may re- 
quire. 

This may be deferred, as well as a portion of the other 
business following the institution, until the next meet- 
ing, but not longer. It will then come up when " unfin- 
ished business" is called up. 

Too much business must not be crowded into the first 
meeting. Close at a reasonable hour, even though some 
business is left over. 

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO DEPUTIES. 

A few additional suggestions will be of service to those 
organizing officers who have had little or no experience 
and few opportunities for observation. 

1st. Be perfect in the secret work. Be sure that the 
new lodge thoroughly understands your exposition of it. 
Give them an opportunity to ask anything they may de- 
sire to know in regard to it. 

2d. Give careful instruction on all points of law and 
usage. Explain " Order of business; " appointment of 
committees on candidates, and duties of such commit- 
tees; balloting on candidates and rejection; manner of 
addressing the presiding officer ; the title of " brother " 
and " sister ; 9} the exercises of " Good of the Order," 
and other forms and duties. 

3d. Explain to the Secretary the correct method of 
keeping his records, drawing orders on the Treasurer, 



ORGANIZATION OF NEW LODGES. 97 

making out propositions for membership, and filling up 
blanks furnished by Grand Secretary for quarterly re- 
ports. 

4th. Teach the Financial Secretary the proper man- 
ner of keeping his ledger account with each member, and 
his evening receipt book account; the manner of making 
out receipts for the money paid him for dues, fines, or 
initiation fees; how to make reports at the end of the 
quarter, and other information regarding his duties. 

5th. Instruct the Treasurer in keeping his accounts ; 
in making quarterly reports; in giving F. S. receipts; 
in paying money only on the written order of W. C. T. 
and Sec. 

6 th. Explain to the Marshal how to make report of 
property, books, odes, regalias, etc., and its condition at 
the end of each quarter. 

(For forms for keeping minutes and accounts, and for making 
reports, see chapter on " Duties of Officers.") 

7th. Instruct lodge deputy in the duties of his po- 
sition ; give him the key to the password cipher, and ex- 
plain its use ; impress him with the necessity for thor- 
ough study of the laws of the Order, and the decisions 
of Grand Lodges, and of the R. W. G. L. 

(The duties of lodge deputies are explained under that head of 
another chapter.) 

8th. Be master of the situation. Do not hesitate 
and appear in doubt. The reponsibility of organiz- 
ing rests upon the deputy. Take that responsibility 
fearlessly. Do not wait for suggestions from those who 
are only becoming members. They may be totally 
unacquainted with the work. The future usefulness 
of a lodge often depends on the thorough and vigor- 



98 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

ous pushing through of the work of organizing. Re- 
member this and be prepared to take each step with 
firmness and promptness. Every member of a new 
lodge looks to the instituting deputy, and expects to 
find in him a model of correctness and precision in 
Lodge work. He may deserve this estimate if he will. 
Think out the whole work in advance. Study methods. 
Be sure just what to do. In short be prepared. Suc- 
cessful organizing will then be assured. 

If possible the instituting deputy should attend each 
meeting of the lodge for several weeks. If he cannot 
do this, he should find some well posted Good Templar 
from an adjoining lodge, who will attend in his place, and 
assist the new members in becoming familiar with our 
laws, rules, and usages. Help of this kind is an imper- 
ative necessity in the outset. Without it a lodge is 
never really set at work. It becomes discouraged. It 
feels isolated. It feels neglected. It never comes into 
intimate and friendly relations with its Grand Lodge. 
If it grows, its growth is feeble. It soon withers, 
droops, dies. 

All this may be avoided by care in the beginning. 
Do not forget to supply the needed attention. 

CONFERRING DEGREES. 

The degrees of Fidelity and Charity should be con- 
ferred on the charter members within three months after 
the institution of the lodge, in jurisdictions still retain- 
ing the degrees. 

They should not be conferred until the lodge has 
thoroughly acquainted itself by actual work with the 
Subordinate degree. If given at once after initiation 
into the Order, all three degrees will be a confused 



ORGANIZATION OF NEW LODGES. 99 

jumble in the minds of most, if not all of the mem- 
bers. 

When the time for conferring the degrees arrives, the 
degree of Fidelity should be conferred one evening, and 
a separate evening devoted to the degree of Charity. 

The assistance of well drilled degree members should 
be obtained, and the complete work given. In no other 
way can its significance and beauty be understood and 
appreciated. 

The degrees have been passed over and slighted, and 
have fallen into disuse in some jurisdictions, solely be- 
cause of the hasty and careless manner in which they 
have been conferred. A member is not likely to place 
a high estimate on a degree given him in a confused 
jumble, hurriedly, and at a late hour — perhaps after a 
long lodge session — by an officer whose whole manner 
indicates that he considers it a bore and is anxious to be 
done with it. 

If his Grand Lodge retains the degrees, a deputy has 
no right to slight and disregard them. 

Let him study their use and seek to make them what 
the founders of the Order designed them to be. 



CHAPTER VIII. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 



DUTIES OF OFFICERS. 

Assuming a lodge to be beginning its labors, with a 
membership wholly inexperienced in Good Templary, 
one of the first and most pertinent inquiries will be, 
" What shall we do ?" 

Unless this query receive a prompt answer from some 
source, a feeling of discouragement will begin to pervade 
the body. No unvarying rules, covering all questions 
likely to arise, could be devised. A general rule may be 
laid down, however, which will no doubt obviate more 
than half the difficulties that will arise: 

Let each officer and member study to acquire 
a thorough knowledge of his own duties and 
prerogatives, and keep himself constantly 
within the bounds of those duties. 

Every society contains one or more of those obnox- 
ious individuals who assume to know just what every- 
body else ought to do, and who constantly seek oppor- 
tunities to display that knowledge. 

Such persons will cause little uneasiness to the officer 
who knows what is right, and does his best, but for the 
careless officer, who takes no pains to learn the duties of 
his position, the meddler is apt to make a thorny path. 

Properly conducted, a Good Templar lodge is not only 
[100] 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 101 

a school of morals and total abstinence, but a practical 
educator in many other directions; fitting those who are 
attentive to its lessons for wider usefulness in almost any 
sphere in life in which they may be placed. 

To assist each officer and member in attaining the best 
possible ideals in the government and conduct of his 
lodge, brief outlines of the duties of each position are 
given. Aside from the performance of the specific du- 
ties enjoined by our laws and usages, good common sense 
will be the best guide in the many emergencies that will 
arise, which could not be foreseen and described. 

Let each officer study the outlines of his duties here 
given, and his own judgment will supply the rest. 

THE WORTHY CHIEF TEMPLAR. 

This office requires more skill, coolness, and judgment 
than any other in the lodge. 

The W. C. T. should study the forms for opening, 
closing, and initiatory ceremonies, that he may not only 
be apt with his own part, but also be able to prompt 
every other officer in the discharge of his duty. 

He should be ON time in everything. 

When the hour fixed in the by-laws for opening ar- 
rives, he should never fail to bring down the gavel, if a 
quorum are present, and proceed with the opening cere- 
monies. If less than a quorum are present at the hour, 
the lodge should be opened as soon as that number ar- 
rive. Delays will cause members to be careless about 
convening early. 

If the lodge is always opened at the hour specified, 
there will be a greater incentive to be "on time. ;; The 
few who are prompt should not be kept waiting for the 
laggards. 



102 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

In presiding, the W. C. T. should conform closely to 
the laws of the Order. He should not under any cir- 
cumstances allow his personal feelings, his likes or dis- 
likes, to influence his action as presiding officer. All 
should receive precisely the same treatment at his 
hands. 

To be successful in the government of the lodge, he 
must inform himself in parliamentary usage. 

Every W. C. T. should obtain a copy of some stan- 
dard work on parliamentary law, and learn and practice 
the rules it teaches. 

He must also know the "Rules of Order," to be found 
in most of the books of constitutions and by-laws. 

He should never allow the discussion of a question to 
degenerate into a dispute, but should require each mem- 
ber to address the "W. C. T. in an orderly manner, and 
wait to be recognized before proceeding to speak. 

When called upon to decide points of order, he should 
render his decision promptly, and permit no discussion 
of his ruling, unless an appeal is taken. 

During the session of the lodge, he should require 
close attention to business, and see that it is dispatched 
as rapidly as possible. 

The by-laws require him to appoint certain stand- 
ing committees on the night of installation. These 
committees are not merely for ornament. They should 
be composed of such members as will attend faithfully 
to the duties assigned them, as provided in the by-laws. 

In the appointment of special committies, care should 
be taken to select members best qualified to perform the 
special service required. 

In no case should any member of a committee be ap- 
pointed merely as an honor. A person who would take 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. .. 103 

offense because not given a place on a committee would 
hardly fulfill its duties properly if the position were 
tendered him. 

When the hour for closing arrives, the W. C. T. 
should not wait for a motion to close, but proceed at 
once with the closing ceremony, unless the lodge by vote 
extend the time for that session. If the business and 
exercises under "Good of the Order," are finished be- 
fore the regular closing hour arrives, the W. C. T. may 
ask if there is any further business, and if there be no 
response, he may proceed to close without a motion to 
that effect. 

Business ought never to drag. Members grow more 
weary in a session of two hours where there is contin- 
ual waiting, than in three or more of brisk and lively 
work. 

The W. C. T. should know exactly what is required, 
when and how it is to be done, and then see that it is 
done expeditiously and at the right time. He should 
not neglect or defer the signing of orders, returns, cer- 
tificates, cards, and other documents which the constitu- 
tion directs him to sign. 

Nor should he forget that the returns must be made 
out, the Grand Lodge tax voted, and the bond of the 
new Treasurer made and approved before the close of 
his term of office. If the Secretary fails to attend to 
these duties, the W. C. T. must call his attention to 
them, and see that all is made ready for the installation 
on the first evening of the new quarter. 

All through his term of office, the W. C. T. will find 
much depending on him. Let him feel the responsi- 
bility without vanity. 



104 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 



WORTHY VICE TEMPLAR. 



All that has been said of the W. C. T. applies to the 
W. V. T. when called upon to take the place of chief, 
in the absence of that officer. The W. V. T. should 
not ask to be relieved of this responsibility, or shift it 
upon other shoulders. 

In his own place he can materially assist the chief in 
preserving order, and in making all the work move 
smoothly and rapidly. 

In examining the guards at the opening of the lodge, 
he should ascertain whether they have the proper pass- 
word, and whether they understand the signals required 
at the doors. 

He should remember to give a new retiring pass-word 
each evening to the D. M. and G. This should not be 
neglected. 

He should familiarize himself with the initiatory cer- 
emony, especially the obligation, and in giving it to 
candidates should strive to make them understand it 
thoroughly, and appreciate its solemnity and importance. 

He should pay close attention to the business of the 
session, and be ready at all times to perform his part of 
the work of the lodge, without waiting to be reminded 
by the W. C. T. 

He should be provided with a gavel, and should use 
it in maintaining order in his part of the room. 

The ante-room is his especial charge, and he should 
see that no noise or disturbance occurs there. 

SECRETARY. 

The secretary must keep the minutes of the lodge with 
care and correctness, and should so divide the labors of 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. , 105 

the office with his assistant that nothing will be neg- 
lected or forgotten. He should never fail to record all 
motions made, and how they were disposed of; all prop- 
ositions for membership, and by whom made; also all 
initiations, and the amount of money received at each 
meeting, as reported by the F. S. at the close, and his 
minutes should also show the amount of all orders drawn 
on the treasury, for what purpose, and to whom payable. 
To be prepared to record business as rapidly as it is 
transacted, and avoid getting behind, some Secretaries 
commence their minutes in advance of opening, leaving 
blank to fill in facts as they transpire, as follows: 

Hall of Aldine Lodge No. 100, 1. O. of G. T. 
Monday evening, Jan. 2d, 1882. 

Lodge called to order at 7 p.m. by , and opened 

in dne form. 
The following officers were present at roll call : 

The following officers were absent: 

The following were appointed officers pro tern. : 

The Journal of last meeting was read and 

It is sometimes the practice to keep the minutes on 
loose sheets of paper, and afterward copy them in the 
record book in ink, thus keeping that book very neat 
and clean. But if this is done, great care must be taken 
that none of the loose sheets be lost, and the minutes 
must always be copied into the permanent record book 
before the next regular meeting. 

A page of a lodge record, showing correct method of 
keeping minutes, is here given as a guide to those who 
have had no experience in the office of Secretary: 



106 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Hall of Aldine Lodge No. 100, 1. O. of G. T. 
Glendale, Fla., Monday evening, Jan. 2d, 1882. 
Opening. Lodge called to order at 7 p.m. by the "W. C. T,, and 

opened in due form. 
Officers Present. The roll of officers was called, and the fol- 
lowing were found present : 

W. C. T., W. Y. T., Sec, F. Sec, Treas., P. W. C. T., Chap- 
lain, Mar., D. Mar., R, H, S., G., Sent. 
Officers Absent. The following were absent: 

A. Sec, L. H. S. 
Pro Tem. Appointments. The following were appointed pro fan.: 

Dora Thorne, as L. H. S., and Jennie Gray, as A. Sec 
Reading Minutes. The Journal of last meeting was read, cor- 
rected, and approved. 
Com. on Candidate, The committee on the proposition of John 
Jones to become a member of this lodge, reported favorably, 
and were discharged. 

Ballot on John Jones. Ballot was taken on proposition of John 
Jones, and he was declared elected to membership. 

Initiation of J. Jones, Mary Smith, Jennie Gill. The Mar- 
shal found John Jones, Mary Smith, and Jennie Gill in wait- 
ing for initiation in the ante-rcom, all of whom, having been 
duly elected to membership, were regularly initiated. 

RECESS. 

Proposition of Able Good. The Secretary read the following 
proposition for membership: 
Able Good, carpenter; age, 36; residence, Glendale; proposed 
by Wm. Way. 

Com. on Proposition. Committee appointed on proposition — 
Lester Ellis, A. Blake, Anna Goss. 

Bill for Sundries $5. Finance committee reported bill of Jones 
& Graves for coal oil, lamps, chimneys, goblets, etc., amount- 
ing to $5.00, correct, and recommended that an order be drawn 
on the treasurer in favor of Jones & Graves for the amount. 

Order Drawn. On motion, the bill was allowed, and an order 
drawn to pay the same. 

Room Com. The room committee reported that one dozen new 
chairs were required to comfortably seat the members. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 107 

Twelve Chairs ordered. On motion, the trustees were in- 
structed to purchase twelve chairs, and present bill for the 
same. 

Com. on Care of Sick. The commitee on care of the sick reported 
that Sister Grace Arnold is very ill of brain fever, and requires 
watchers. They selected the following members to watch with 
her for the ensuing week: 

WATCHERS FOR GRACE ARNOLD. 

Monday night — Jennie Cleveland, Abbie Guild. 
Tuesday Hattie Glass, Winnie Gow. 

Wednesday " Katie Lewis, Jennie Gray. 
Thursday " Sarah Barnes, Jane Atkins. 
Friday Annie Adams, Grace Dewey. 

Saturday " Minnie Gale, Eva Lewis. 
Sunday " Ida Barnes, Louise Williamson. 

Kefusal to watch. Committee also reported that Fannie Har- 
per refused to watch, and gave no reason for her refusal. 
Fine. W. C. T. instructed F. S. to charge up fine of 50c. against 

Fannie Harper. 
Com. on Festival Report. Special committee on Festival sub- 
mitted their report, which, on motion, was adopted; com- 
mittee discharged, and report placed on file. 
Festival Receipts. Their report shows: 

Total receipts $68,42 

" Expenses. Disbursements 30.95 

" Profits. Net profits $37.47 

which was duly paid over to the Financial Secretary. 
App. for Degree. F. Secretary reported that Israel Putnam and 

Jennie Putnam have paid the fee and applied for the degrees. 
Hall Re-rented. Trustees reported that they have renewed the 

lease for hall now occupied by the lodge for a term of three years 

at an annual rental of $75. On motion, the report was adopted, 

and action of trustees approved, 
A. Sec. Office vacant. Jennie Gray Apptd. The A. Sec. 

having been absent for three successive meetings, the office 

was declared vacant, and Jennie Gray was appointed to fill 

vacancy. 
F. S. Resigns. Joseph Wall offered his resignation as F. Sec, as 

he will be in Washington the remainder of the quarter. 



108 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Grace Dewey, F. S. Resignation accepted, and Grace Dewey 
elected to fill vacancy. 

F. S. and A. S. Installed. Grace Dewey, F. S. elect, and Jen- 
nie Gray, A. S. etect, were then installed. 

Regalia Postponed. The question of new regalia, which on 
Dec. 19th was made a special order 1 for this evening, was post- 
poned one week. 

New Carpet. The unfinished business of purchase of new carpet 
was taken up: 
Moved, that committee be instructed to purchase Brussels 
carpet at $1.65 per yard. 

Moved, to amend by making "price not to exceed $1.40 per 
yard. ' ' 

Moved, to amend by substituting 3-ply for Brussels. 
Second amendment carried. 
First amendment lost. 
Three-ply $1.65 per yard. Motion as amended carried. 

Inavale Lodge. Communication from Inavale Lodge, No. 60, 
inviting this lodge to meet with them next Friday evening, 
was read and placed on file. 

Com. on Conveyance. On motion, invitation was accepted, and 
a committee of three appointed to procure conveyance: 
Committee— Hiram Jones, Israel Putnam, Henry Smith. 
Literary Programme. The following programme of literary 
exercises was presented to the satisfaction of all present": 
Select Reading — Jane Atkins. 
Dialect " Israel Putnam, 

Oration — Hiram Jones. 

Humorous Song — Henry Smith and Louise Williamson. 
Bible Reading — Sarah Barnes. 
Five minutes Speech — Joseph Wall. 
Dialogue — Minnie Gale, Eva Lewis. 
Closing. The hour for closing having arrived the balance of pro- 
gramme was deferred one week, and lodge closed in due form. 
Receipts, $40.47. Receipts of evening, $40.47. 
Attendance, 61. No. of members in attendance, 61. 

(Signed) HIRAM JONES, See. 

JENNIE GRAY, A. Sec. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 109 

In making up a record it is best to leave a wide mar- 
gin at the left of the page, to be filled with indexes, as 
indicated by the words in small capitals in the above 
report. This wall facilitate the examination of the min- 
utes of past meetings when it becomes necessary. 

The Secretary must set apart one or more pages in his 
record for a complete list of all members of his lodge 
who have received the degree of Fidelity, and other 
pages for a list of those who have taken the degree of 
Charity. If this record has not been kept, the Secre- 
tary should at once begin it, and make it as complete as 
possible. This does not take the place of a similar 
record kept by the F. S. 

He must make a written report to the lodge at the 
close of the quarter, and must accompany it with the 
returns to Grand Lodge, filled out on the blanks fur- 
nished by the G. W. Sec. This report should be a 
summary of the transactions of the lodge as recorded in 
his Journal. The points to be covered are shown in the 

form here given : 

- Glendale, Fla,, Jan. 30, 1882. 

To the Officers and Members of Aldine Lodge No. 100, 1. 0. of G. T. : 
Your Secretary respectfully submits his report for the quarter 
ending Jan'y 31st, 1882, accompanied by the quarterly returns to 
Grand Lodge. The records show the following facts : 

Meetings held 1 13 

Average attendance 55 

No. initiated 25 

Admitted by card 4 

Reinstated 3 

One member has withdrawn from the Order, one has been sus- 
pended, and one expelled, making present membership 79. 

A festival was held during the Holidays, which resulted in a net 
profit of $37.47. Including this amount the total receipts of the 
quarter were $87.72. 

Submitted in F., H,, and C, 

HIRAM JONES, Secretary. 



110 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Grand Lodge returns are usually made in the follow- 
ing or similar form : 

QUARTERLY RETURNS TO THE GRAND LODGE I. O. G. T. 

MEMBERSHIP. 

1. No. members last report 50 

2. Initiated during term 25 

3. Admitted by Card 4 

4. Reinstated 3 

First total 82 

5. Suspended 1 

6. Withdrawn by Card 1 

7. Withdrawn from Order 

8. Deaths 

9. Expelled (not previously suspended) 1 

Second total 3 

10. No. of members now in good standiug 79 

OFFICERS FOR THE ENSUING TERM. 

Henry McShane P. W. C. T. 

Israel Putnam W. C. T. 

Jennie Gray W. V. T. 

Hiram Jones W. Sec. 

Henry Smith Lodge Dep. 

STATISTICAL. 

Date of Organization Feb. 1st, 1870. 

Evening of Meeting Monday. 

Location of Hall Pine St., cor. Jones St. 

Post-office Address Glendale. 

County Dade. 

No. Male Members 40 

No. Female Members 39 

No. Full Degree Members 47 

No. Ministers holding Membership 2 

No. Violated Pledge during Term 1 

No. Suspended for non-payment of Dues 1 

No. Suspended for other Causes 

Value of all property owned by lodge $350. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. Ill 

In testimony of the foregoing report being correct, we have here- 
unto set oar hands and affixed the seal of our lodge, this first day 
of February, 1882, 

HENRY McSHANE, W. C. T. 

HIRAM JONES, W. 8. 

REMARKS. 

We have good attendance, and interest steadily maintained. 
Average attendance during the quarter has been fifty-five each 
evening. 

A copy of this report and return should be read in 
the lodge before installation at the first meeting in the 
new quarter, and filed for future reference. 

The complete returns sent to the Grand Lodge, to- 
gether with the Secretary's quarterly report, should be 
copied into the record book, following the minutes of 
the meeting at which they were reported. This does 
not dispense with filing a copy, but will be more certian 
to be preserved if the filed copy be lost. 

All documents should be neatly folded, and filed by 
writing on the back, near the end, the kind of document 
and its date, so that the packages can be examined rap- 
idly and without opening. These papers should be so ar- 
ranged that the filing will be at the same end of the 
bundle and the same side up. They should be folded of 
uniform width, and secured by rubber band or by tying. 
If Jones & Graves have sent in a bill, Jan. 2d, 1882, 
for sundries furnished the lodge to the amount of $5.00, 
which is paid and receipted, the filing on the back would 
be as follows : 

Bill of Jones & Graves. 

Oil, ] amps, etc., $5.00. 

Jan. 2d, 1882. 

Receipted . 



112 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

The precaution to save and file all such papers may 
save the lodge many dollars and much trouble and con- 
fusion. 

The Secretary writes the history of the lodge. His 
mistakes and inaccuracies, his blots and erasures will 
remain as long as the lodge lives, a memorial of his 
carelessness or indifference. Neat, clean pages, careful 
entries, and correct business methods will proclaim him 
worthy of higher place, and his " faithfulness in a few 
things " may make him "ruler over many." The 
habits formed in conducting the labors of the office of 
Secretary of the lodge may make or mar his whole fu- 
ture. 

FINANCIAL SECRETARY.* 

The F. S. must keep accurate accounts. Most Grand 
Lodges furnish books so ruled that his work is greatly 
simplified, and brought within the comprehension of the 
most unskilled book-keeper. 

For those who know nothing of these forms, and for 
jurisdictions where none are furnished, the following ex- 
amples will be of service. 

The first book required is an evening receipt book, in 
which to make an entry of all the cash received, by 
whom paid, and for what. 

A blank book ruled as a journal is required. 

The entries for a single month are given, also the 
footings at the end of the month and at the close of the 



*D. W. Hooker, the efficient Grand Worthy Secretary of New 
York, has invented a complete set of books for Secretary Financial 
Secretary, and Treasurer. They are so simple that any one with 
ordinary talent can keep them, and so perfect as to avoid a vast 
number of errors. The forms here given are intended to aid those 
to whom Bro. Hooker's perfect system is not accessible. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 



113 



quarter, showing the proper manner of keeping this book. 
The figures in the left hand column refer to the page in 
the ledger, where that member's complete account is 
posted : 

Evening Receipts. 



Ledger 
Page. 



150 

151 

152 

59 

71 



153 

154 

12 



155 
15 

100 
96 



44 
45 

80 



Monday, Jan. 2d, 1882. 



From John Jones, initiation fee. 



Mary Smith, 
Jennie Gill, 

Israel Pntnam, degree fee 

Jennie Putnam, " 

Festival Committee, net profits. 



Paid Treasurer as per his receipt No. 90. 



Monday, Jan. 9th. 



From Abel Good, initiation fee 

" Geo. W. Rork, " 

" Arthur Christie, dues to May 1st, 1882 

Paid Treasurer, as per his receipt No. 91.. 



Monday, Jan. 16th. 



From Mary Wayne, initiation fee 

" Dora Thorne, dues to May 1, 1882 . 
" Israel Pntnam, " " 

" Jennie Gray, 

Paid Treasurer, as per his receipt No. 92. 



Monday, Jan. 23d. 

From Daniel Gould, dues to May 1st. 
" Robert Earl, " 

" Grace Dewey, 



Paid Treasurer, as per his receipt No. 93. 



Forward . . . 



100 
50 
50 
50 
50 
47 



$40 



B 1 



$ 2 



* 1 



47 



50 



$40 



$ 2 



47 



50 



50 



$45 



25 

72 



114 



THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 



Ledger 
Page. 




156 

157 

358 

1 

2 

97 

20 

49 

50 

61 

62 

3 


Brot. forward... 
Monday, Jan. 30th. 
From Albert Jones, initiation fee 


$ 1 
1 

1 
$ 7 


00 
00 
75 
50 
25 
50 
50 
25 
25 
50 
25 

50 1 
00 
50 

75 


$45 

$ 7 

$53 
12 

22 1 

$87' 


72 




" William Brown, " 






" Frank Edwards, admission by card ... 
u Amos Jones, dues to May 1st 






u Hannah Jones, ll 






" Thomas Newton, " 






" Jacob Lance, " 






a Jennie Cleveland, " 






" Abbie Guild, " 






" Hiram Jones, " 






" Fannie Harper, " 






" " " fine Jan. 2. Refusing 
to watch 






" Joseph Wall, dues to Aug. 1st 

" for traveling card 






Paid Treasurer, as per his receipt No. 94 

Total receipts for Jan 


75 

47 




" " Dec, 1881 


$5 




" " Nov., 1881 


00 




Q uar ter 


7° 









The Financial Secretary must also keep a ledger, into 
which all these accounts must be posted, so that he may 
be able to readily ascertain what is due from each mem- 
ber. 

The figures at the right of the words " By Cash," in- 
dicate the page in the evening receipt book, where the , 
original entry may be found. 

The manner of keeping ledger accounts is here shown : 



1882 


JOHN JONES. 
1882. 


150 


Jan 


2 
1 


To initiation f e e . . . 
" dues to May 1.. 


$ 1,00 

50 


Jan 


2'Bv Cash 


Pg. 
55 


$ 1 00 


Feb 




! 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 



115 



As John Jones, Mary Smith and Jennie Gill joined the 
lodge Jan. 2, an account must be opened with each in 
the ledger, as shown above. 

The account of Thomas Newton, and other old mem- 
bers who paid their dues during the month of January, 
as shown by the evening receipt book, has been posted 
in the ledger from quarter to quarter, for several years, 
and appear as follows : 



1880. 



THOMAS NEWTON 
Dr. 1880. 



97 
Cr. 



Dec. 28 To initiation fee.. 



1881. 
Feb. 
May 
Aug. 
Nov. 



1882. 
Feb. 
Feb. 



dues to May 1 
Aug. 1 
Nov. 1 
Feb. 1 



" May 1 
CI' ranee Card 



Withdrawn 





$ 1 


00 


Dec. 


28 






50 

50 
50 
50 


1881. 
Feb. 
Apr. 
Aug 
Oct. 


15 

30 
9 

25 




$ 2 


00 

50 
25 


1882. 
Jan. 
Feb. 


30 
6 




$ 


75 ; 








by 


1 


Card 





By Cash . 



Feb. 6th, 1882. 



40 



50 



$ 1 



00 



$2 00 



75 



Thomas Newton having applied for a clearance card, 
Feb. 6th, the F. S. foots up his account, finds that his 
dues are paid to date, and the card is granted. This 
closes the account of Thomas Newton, and the F. S. 
must immediately write the facts and date in plain hand 
across the page. 

In the case of death, expulsion, or suspension of a 
member, the account must be closed in the same manner, 
and the facts and dates stated. 

On the first day of each quarter, the F. S. should go 
through the entire ledger, and charge on the debtor side 
the amount of dues for that quarter, in all the accounts 
except those closed in the above manner. 



116 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

In most lodges there is a large number of suspensions 
from non-payment of dues. Many of those thus sus- 
pended are good and useful members, but circumstances 
have made it difficult or impossible to attend. Some of 
the best and truest members our Order has ever had 
have been prevented from attending the lodge meetings 
for months or even years by circumstances over which 
they had no control. They once faithfully bore the 
burden of labor in the lodge. They are loyal to the 
Order still. They would not let their dues accumulate 
if they were asked for the amount. No one asks them, 
and they are finally suspended or even expelled with- 
out even being notified that they are in arrears. 

It may be said that if they were really interested in the 
lodge they would send up the amount each quarter, with- 
out being asked. But it cannot be expected that mem- 
bers who are absent will keep as clearly in their minds 
the dates for payment of dues and other details of the 
lodge as when they were regular attendants. They may 
not even be informed who is Financial Secretary, or they 
may not be able to see the officer even when fully in- 
tending to pay their dues at the proper time. 

Others, who never expected to be able to attend lodge 
meetings regularly, but who became members that they 
might give the Order the assistance their names and in- 
fluence would confer, are surprised and offended to find 
themselves ignominiously suspended without having 
knowingly disobeyed any law of the Order. 

The Order cannot afford to lose so many members by 
suspension for non-payment of dues. A large propor- 
tion of the delinquents would have paid their dues, and 
would keep them paid if asked for them at the proper 
time, by the proper officer. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 117 

It should not be forgotten that the outside work and 
influence of a member who pays his dues regularly, and 
maintains his standing in the lodge, may be very helpful 
even though he cannot be present at lodge meetings. 
He feels an interest he could not otherwise feel. He is 
a member. He may drop into meetings at any time, 
even though it be for a few moments only. He feels 
identified with the success of the lodge. He is classed 
by outsiders as one of the lodge. Whatever of social in- 
fluence he may possess is exerted for the lodge. 

Our Order should not forget that there may be a 
sphere of usefulness for members who cannot attend 
our meetings. Nothing is to be gained by suspending 
or expelling such if their dues can be collected, so that 
the Grand Lodge tax upon them will not become a bur- 
den on the lodge. If a systematic plan for retaining this 
u outside force " in the ranks had been adopted long ago, 
great benefit would have resulted from it. No method 
could be devised that would prove more successful than 
a purely business system. 

The merchant makes out his bills, and on the first day 
of each month sends his collector to each creditor. The 
creditor expects these visits, and is prepared to meet 
these demands before they assume the large proportions 
of a six months' or a year's account, which would be far 
more difficult for him to pay. Thus both merchant and 
creditor are benefited by a correct business system. 

Applying the same methods to lodge finances will 
prove a marked success. 

Let the Financial Secretary at the beginning of each 
quarter make out bills against every member whose dues 
are not paid on or before the first meeting in that quarter. 
A blank form of bill may be printed, and filled out as 
follows: 



118 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

No. 10. Glendale, Dade Co., FLA.,Feb. 1st, 1882. 

James Howland 

To Aldine Lodge No. 100, I. O. of G. T., Dr. 

To dues from Feb. 1st to Apr. 30 50 

Rec'd payment. 

, Fina ncial Sec. 

With these bills the F. S. should proceed to visit 
every member and collect the dues. Put it on the 
basis of a regular business transaction. Let no member 
be overlooked. The sum of a single quarter's dues is 
so small that very few persons will neglect to pay it 
when asked. 

Let this plan be the regular and unvarying method — 
not the spasmodic effort of a single quarter. The mem- 
bers will then become accustomed to its workings, and 
nearly every member once in the lodge will remain. 

If the lodge is large and prosperous financially, it 
would be wiser to pay the F. S. for two or three days 
at the beginning of each quarter to devote his time to 
collecting the dues. It will pay to employ a good 
man to make these collections. The lodge will gain 
far more than it costs. 

If the duties of the F. S. are faithfully performed in 
accordance with these plans, the lodge can hardly fail to 
be flourishing and prosperous. No officer can contrib- 
ute more to the success of the lodge than the F. S. If 
he is faithful and prompt, his lodge will grow strong. 
If he is faithless and dilatory, it will be almost impos- 
sible to keep it from dismemberment and dissolution. 

At the end of the quarter, the F. S. must submit a 
detailed report of the receipts of the quarter, and a re- 
capitulation showing the aggregate from each source. 

The facts set forth should be such as are found in the 
following;: 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 119 

Glendale, Dade Co., Fla., Jan. 30th, 1882. 
To the Officers and Members of Aldine Lodge No. 100 } I. O. of O. T. 
Your Financial Secretary would respectfully submit the follow- 
ing report of business of his office for the quarter ending Jan, 31st., 

1882: 

RECEIPTS. 

Nov. 7, f 9 50 Dec. 5, $ 4 00 Jan. 2, $40 47 

u 14, 4 25 " 12, 4 50 " 9, 2 50 

" 21, 5 00 " 19, 2 00 " 16, 1 50 

" 28, 3 25 , " 26, 1 75 " 23. 1 25 

" 30, 7 75 

$22 00 $12 25 $53 47 

Totals: Nov,, $22 00 
Dec, 12 25 
Jan., 53 47 

Totals for quarter: $87 72 

Eeceipts were from the following sources: 

Card and initiation fees $23 00 

Profits of Festival 37 47 

Quarterly dues 23 25 

Fines 4 00 

Total $87 72 

I hold the Treasurer's receipts, numbered consecutively from 82 
to 94 inclusive, amounting to the above sum. 
Submitted in F. , H. , and C. 

(Signed) GRACE DEWEY, F. Sec. 

When a competent and reliable F. S. is secured, he 
should be re-elected as long as he remains a member. It 
is not wise to exchange an able, efficient, and experi- 
enced officer who has performed his duties satisfactorily 
for a new and untried aspirant, even though the latter 
be possessed of equal qualifications. 

THE TREASURER. 

Before installation, the Treasurer must give a bond of 
not less than the sum required by the constitution. He 



120 



THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 



need not hesitate or object to this. It is no imputation 
against his integrity. It is a business transaction. Let 
him remember that it is a law of the Order, in effect and 
practice from the beginning. It is a matter of right, 
and should never be neglected. Between the evening 
of election and the evening of installation, a week 
intervenes. During this time he should prepare his 



60 RECEIPTS OF TREASURER FOR QUARTER ENDING 

Jan. 31, 1882. 



1881. 










Nov. 


1 


From Aaron Goodrich, past Treasurer, (Gave him 










Receipt No. 81) 


$ 10 88 


a 


7 


" Financial Sec, " " 82 


9 50 


a 


14 


a a a tt a qo 


425 


a 


21 


u a u tt a qa 


5 


00 


it 


28 
5 


U a a tt a qc 

Total for November, 
From Financial Sec. , Receipt No. 86 


3 


35 




$ 32 


88 


Dec. 


$ 4 


00 


a 


12 


a it a ' it a gy 


4 


50 


a 


19 


U CC (( U U QQ 


2 


00 


a 


26 


u it tt u u on 


1 


75 






Total for December, 


$ 12 


25 


1882. 










Jan. 


2 


From Financial Sec, Receipt No. 90 


.$ 40 


47 


a 


9 


tl tt U tt it Q-j 


2i50 


a 


16 


a it a u tl go 


1 


50 


a 


23 


a a a it u qq 


1 


25 


it 


30 


it it l it it QA 

Total for January, 
Summary : 


7 


75 




$ 53 


47 












Receipts for November, 


f 32 


88 






" u December, 


12 


25 






" " January, 
Total Receipts for the quarter, 


53 


47 




$ 98 


60 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 



121 



bond aud have it signed by his sureties, and witnessed, 
so that the installation may not be delayed by its prep- 
aration. 

The treasurer has a simple system of accounts which 
he may readily understand. His book is ruled with or- 
dinary day-book or blotter columns. 

On the left hand pages he will enter receipts, and on 
the right hand pages he will enter all disbursements. 
His books will appear as follows : 



disbursements of treasurer for quarter ending 
Jan. 31,1882. 



61 



1881. 














Nov. 


10 


Paid Order No 


. 1, (Hall rent, Nov., J. Howe) 


$ 6 


25 


u 


12 


t i 


I 4 


2, (Janitor, Oct., Wm. Briggs) 


2 


00 


a 


16 


i i 


it 


3, (W'nd'w c'rt'ns Jennie Gray) 


5 


00 


a 


22 


(C 


u 


4, (Crape for funeral " " ) 


2 


25 


u 


30 


(, i 


a 


5, (Hall rent, Dec, J. Howe) 
Total Ex. for Nov., 


6 25 




$ 21 


75 


Dec. 


5 


Paid Order No 


. 6, (Janitor, Nov., Wm. Briggs) 


$ 2 


00 


i i 


5 


a . 


(( 


7, (Cl'ning c'pet, etc., Asa Good) 


2 


75 


1 1 


31 




u 


8, (Hall rent, Jan., J. Howe) 
Total for Dec. , 


6 


25 




$ 11 


00 


1882. 














Jan. 


2 


Paid Order No 


9,(L'mps, oils, etc., Jones& GrVes) 


5 


00 


(c 


10 


u 


a 


10, (1 doz. chairs, 0. Howard) 


9 


00 


u 


u 


a 


(( 


11, (Janitor, Dec, Wm. Briggs) 


2 


00 


it 


u 


u 


U 


J2,(T'ms to Inavale, Hiram Jones) 


6 


00 


u 


28 


u 


13, (Rent for Feb., J. Howe) 
Total for Jan., 
Summary : 


6 


25 




$ 28 


25 
















Orders paid in November, 


$21 


75 










December, 


11 


00 










u " January, 


28 


25 










On hand, Jan. 30th, 


37 


60 




$ 98 


60 



122 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

So simple is the method that it will be almost im- 
possible, with ordinary care, to make mistakes. 

It must be remembered that the proper time to make 
an entry on the books is when the transaction occurs. 
Delays and trusting to memory will be almost certain to 
result in mistakes. This will apply alike to the Secre- 
tary, Financial Secretary, and Treasurer. 

At the close of the quarter the Treasurer's written re- 
port will be a transcript from the book already shown. 
It should contain an itemized account of the receipts and 
disbursements, exactly as they appear on the book. 

The forms of report already given for Sec. and F. 
Sec, will indicate with sufficient clearness the manner 
of compiling the report of the Treasurer. 

THE FINANCIAL OFFICERS 

are the Secretary, Financial Secretary, and Treasurer. 
They must be accurate in their accounts; nothing is 
more discouraging to a lodge than loose and careless 
financial management. Nothing more speedily impairs 
the confidence of members than accounts that will not 
balance. 

If the Secretary has correctly reported the evening 
receipts from week to week; if the Financial Secretary 
has made the proper entries in his books, and the Treas- 
urer has charged himself with all receipts, the reports 
of these three officers will balance exactly. If they do 
not balance, one or all have made mistakes. 

For his own good each officer should take especial 
pains to avoid errors. If errors are found, and he has 
not accounted for all moneys received, though he may 
be perfectly innocent of wrong intent, a suspicion will 
inevitably arise in some minds, that the design was to 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. ^ 123 

defraud the lodge. Care and attention will prevent 
sach suspicion. Character is at stake. Let each officer 
guard his own reputation. 

THE FINANCE COMMITTEE. 

The written reports of the financial officers must be 
referred to the Finance Committee. The committee 
must examine them carefully and compare them with the 
books. They should require the vouchers for all money 
disbursed. If any discrepancies occur, the attention of 
the officer whose book or report is incorrect should be 
called to the mistake and he should make the necessary 
correction. If they find all to be correct they should 
make a report in writing setting forth the facts. 

Glendale, Fla., Feb. 6th, 1882. 
To the Officers and Members of Aldine Lodge No. 100, J. 0. of G. T. 

Your Finance Committee, to whom was referred the reports of 
the Sec., F. Sec, and Treas., respectfully report, that we have ex- 
amined said reports and carefully compared them with the books 
and vouchers and find them correct. 

Submitted in F., H., and C, 
(Signed) ARTHUR GRISWOLD, 

MINNIE FROST, 
JAMES BELL, 

Finance Committee. 

All bills should be referred to the Finance Committee 
after being read by the Sec, to whom they are first pre- 
sented. The W. C. T. may so refer all bills without 
motion. 

The committee must then examine the items and see 
if correct, and if found so they will endorse "correct" or 
"approved" on the back of the bill and sign their names. 

THE PAST WORTHY CHIEF TEMPLAR 

must see that members wear the regalia provided by the 



124 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

lodge. It is his especial charge to see that the salutation 
is properly given, and he should instruct those who are 
awkward or incorrect in giving it. He should not re- 
spond to the salutation unless members are in order. 

THE CHAPLAIN 

should be chosen from among the Christian members. 
If there be a minister in the lodge he should be elected 
Chaplain, unless he is needed in some other official capac- 
ity. If a minister is not available, some member whose 
religious character is unimpeachable should be selected. 

The duties of Chaplain should be performed with so- 
lemnity and reverence. They are not a mere form. Our 
" looking to God for his blessing" should be genuine 
and heartfelt. It is the cry of human helplessness to 
Infinite strength for aid. The battle against the forces 
of error may seem desperate, the heart may grow faint, 
the brain grow dizzy in the struggle, but "looking up" 
and realizing that the King of all the universe is our 
Leader and our Prfnce, we grow stronger and take new 
courage. 

The Chaplain may offer a short extemporaneous prayer 
or read passages of scripture in the place of the opening 
or closing prayer found in the Ritual. Such variation 
is desirable when it can be made. 

THE MARSHAL 

should always arrive at the lodge room before the hour 
of opening, that he may see that the room is in order, 
place the regalia where the members can readily provide 
themselves with it, and the officers' regalia at the respect- 
ive chairs, distribute the officers' cards and the ode cards, 
and see that everything is ready for the opening cere- 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 125 

monies. He should see that the regalias and books and 
cards are carefully collected at the close of the meeting 
and placed where they will be preserved and kept clean. 
No one likes to wear a soiled regalia, and the lodge can- 
not afford to purchase new books and cards every few 
weeks to supply the place of those lost or injured by 
neglect. 

The Marshal should always have the ballot box pre- 
pared before opening, and on the night of election of 
officers a large number of slips of paper made ready for 
ballots. Much time will thus be saved. 

As he has an important part to perform in the initia- 
tory ceremonies, he should study that part and become 
thoroughly familiar with every movement required. 

The Marshal is the custodian of the property of the 
lodge. At the close of the quarter he must make a writ- 
ten report of the quantity and condition of all such prop- 
erty. A form of report is given below. 

Glendale, Fla., Jan. 30th, 1882. 
To the Officers and Members of Aldine Lodge No. 100, L O. of G. T, 

Your Marshal would respectfully report that the following prop- 
erty of the lodge is in his hands at the present date: 

AMT. KIND. CONDITION. 

1 Cabinet Organ Good. 

66 Chairs (common) 1 broken, can be easily repaired. 

6 " (cushioned arms) Good. 

12 Lamps " 

70 "White regalias 40 need laundrying. 

14 Officers " 

1 L. D's. " 

1 Carpet on lodge room Bad condition. 

4 Officer's stands Good. 

1 Altar " 

1 Bible " 

2 Desks " except 1 lock broken. 

1 Cupboard " 



126 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

60 Ode cards Good, except 5. 

1 Set officers' cards " 

2 Subordinate rituals " 

Submitted in F., H., and C, 

EZRA MORSE, 

Marshal, 

THE LODGE DEPUTY. 

The Grand Worthy Chief Templar appoints for each 
lodge, a Deputy G. W. C. T., to whose keeping are in- 
trusted the interests of the Grand Lodge for that lodge. 

This appointment is usually made with the advice of 
the lodge, but the G. W. C. T. is not compelled to ap- 
point the member thus recommended. 

The Lodge Deputy is G. W. C. T. in his own lodge in 
the absence of that officer. Representing the Grand 
Lodge, he must first seek to understand fully the rela- 
tions between that body and its Subordinate lodges. 

He must present to the lodge, to be read aloud by the 
Secretary in its session, his commission from his superior 
officer, and cannot be received in his official capacity 
until he has done this. As soon as he receives his com- 
mission, he should commence a thorough and careful 
study of the constitution, by-laws, and Grand and E. 
W. G. Lodge decisions, if he is not already well posted 
in the legislation of the Order. 

He will find this study necessary, as appeals will 
sometimes be made from the action of the lodge to 
him. He must decide such appeals according to the 
law and usage. He must be honest, discreet, impartial. 

In recommending a L. D. these qualifications should 
be sought. Experience in the position is desirable, and 
a member who has filled the office before, or in other 
lodges, should be selected rather than one wholly unac- 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 127 

quainted with its duties. He should also be a man of 
accurate and careful business habits as well as experi- 
ence. 

A good L. D. should be retained. Rotation in offices 
may be desirable, and even beneficial, but it is not wise 
to change a L. D. merely to give some one else a place. 

The L. D. is the installing officer of the lodge. Be- 
fore installation he must require the lodge and its officers 
to comply with the following conditions: 

1st. Secretary, Financial Secretary, Treasurer, and 
Marshal must submit written reports to the lodge, and 
Secretary must prepare returns for transmission to G. L. 

2d. Bond of the Treasurer must be filled out, and 
approved by the lodge. 

3d. An order for the G. L. per capita tax must be 
drawn and placed in his hands, and he must present the 
same to the Treasurer, and have it cashed. 

4th. All indebtedness to the Grand Lodge must be 
paid. 

After the lodge has complied with all these require- 
ments, the deputy may proceed to install its officers. 
When installation is completed, he must communicate 
the new password to the new W. C. T., but under no 
circumstances to any other member. He is not per- 
mitted to use the password himself until he has obtained 
it by paying his quarterly dues, and receiving it from 
the W. C. T. 

Installation must not be delayed. The time for elec- 
tion is the last meeting in each quarter, and for instal- 
lation, the next meeting. Unless under extraordinary 
circumstances, this business can be attended to at the 
time designated in the constitution better than at any 
other. Postponement is always damaging to the lodge. 
9 



128 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

It engenders a looseness and disregard of the rules of 
the Order, which is destructive to discipline. 

The L. D. should see that the lodge is prompt in the 
performance of these duties, and should be equally 
prompt in the performance of his own. He must send 
" quarterly returns " and Grand Lodge tax immediately 
to the Grand Worthy Secretary. To hold the money 
appropriated to pay this tax in his hands after it should 
have been forwarded, is dishonorable, and may lead to 
more serious violations of trust. Every L. D. should 
seek to establish a reputation for prompt and honor- 
able dealing with the G. L. 

DEGREE MEETINGS. 

In jurisdictions where the Degree Temples have been 
abandoned, the degree work is confided to the L. D. 
He may call degree meetings at such times as the in- 
terests of the lodge seem to require, by announcing 
publicly in lodge session the time and place of such 
meeting. He shall act as Degree Templar, and appoint 
degree members who may be best qualified to fill the 
various offices. 

In conferring degrees the law should be complied 
with. Dispensations should not be granted indiscrimi- 
nately, or without good reason, either for conferring de- 
grees or for initiating applicants the same evening they 
are proposed in Subordinate lodges. 

The degrees of Fidelity and Charity should never be 
conferred on the same evening. Hasty, hurried work, 
makes no vivid impressions. The degrees are beautiful 
in their ceremonial as well as in their conception, but 
there can be nothing to admire in a confused jumble of 
words, necessitated by crowding two degrees into the 
same evening. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 129 

In conclusion, let the L. D. feel the grave responsi- 
bility of his position; let him be careful not to presume 
upon his position and authority to interpose needless, 
frivolous, and captious objections to the action of the 
lodge. Only when some serious dereliction of duty, 
liable to infringe on the rights of members, or to lead to 
the overthrow of established laws occurs, should he of 
his own accord interfere. 

When appeals are taken to him, he must decide 
promptly, and without regard to his personal feelings, 
prejudices, or sympathies. 

The best Deputy is least obtrusive. A stranger would 
only become conscious of his presence by observing his 
regalia. Gravely and courteously performing his real 
duties, and never seeking to magnify his importance by 
interference in imaginary cases of irregularities, the 
model Deputy receives the respect and esteem of his as- 
sociates, and secures ready recognition of his authority. 

While the L. D. is not an officer of the Subordinate 
Lodge, but is an officer of the Grand Lodge, his duties 
are enumerated here because they are confined wholly to 
his own Subordinate Lodge and its status with the G. L. 

The remaining officers will readily perform their du- 
ties without suggestions beyond those found in the ritual. 



CHAPTER IX. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 

[continued.] 



DUTIES OF MEMBERS. 

One of the first duties of members is prompt attend- 
ance. Frivolous excuses should never keep them from 
the lodge. 

The meetings are held on a certain day of each week, 
definitely known in advance. Let each member set 
apart that time for lodge work, never making any other 
engagements for that evening. By adopting this sys- 
tem, and adhering to it rigidly, it will not be found 
difficult to keep " lodge night " free. 

A great gain to the lodge results from the regular at- 
tendance of its members. 

If those who are regarded as substantial members are 
frequently absent without any good reasons, those who 
are less deeply interested cannot be expected to maintain 
their interest. Thus the lodge will fail to exert the in- 
fluence upon this class which it otherwise might, and 
its mission will be unfulfilled. 

The officers are no more responsible for the mainte- 
nance of the interest than are the individual members. 
Unless all are helpful the interest will flag. 

" What can ive do that will benefit the lodge?" is a 
question often asked by members. 

[ 130,] 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 131 

1st. Be regular in attendance. 

2d. Never decline to act on committees or as officers 
when requested to do so by the lodge or W. C. T. 

3d. Assist in the entertainments under " Good of the 
Order," and at other times. 

Each person can do something. There is a wide va- 
riety from which to choose. Declamations, orations, 
singing, recitations, dialogues, pantomimes, charades, 
tableaux, and readings, are all useful. 

Too often the preparation for the " Good of the Order" 
is left with a few, who are always willing to do what 
they can to entertain. This is not fair. Every member 
should help in this direction. If a few are left to do 
all this work without help from the other lodge mem- 
bers, they might become dissatisfied, thinking the others 
do not try to entertain them, and begin to absent them- 
selves from the meetings, saying : 

" I always have to furnish something for the literary 
exercises. I will stay at home awhile and see how they 
will get along." 

Consequently some of the very best members may 
be lost. 

Some feel, perhaps, that if they undertake to read, or 
recite, or sing, they might not do as well as others could. 

There may be a carpenter who can do better work than 
any other, but he cannot do all the building. There 
may be a miller who is better than any one else in his 
trade, but half the community would starve while wait- 
ing for him to make their flour. There may be a book- 
keeper who is more proficient in his line of work than 
another, but he cannot keep all the books. There may 
be one teacher who excels all others in imparting in- 
struction, but it would not be wise to let the children 



132 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

who could not come under his instruction grow up in 
ignorance. 

It is a poor excuse to say, " Sister or Brother A. or 
B. can do so much better, I do not want to read or 
sing," etc. And again it may not be true. It may be 
simply lack of self-confidence. If it were true, there 
is no person on earth who is capable of doing both your 
work and his own. 

One member may be the sweetest singer in the world, 
but he cannot furnish the pleasing variety the lodge 
might enjoy if others, even though less proficient, would 
help him. One may be the most excellent reader, but 
he cannot do your part. 

In other words, no one but yourself can do your work. 

It would be as consistent to say, because one member 
had better teeth than some others, that he should do 
their eating for them. This would be no more absurd 
than excuses often rendered. 

The lodge is a fraternal home. Each member belongs 
to this family. All must unite in making this home 
pleasant and enjoyable. 

Be sisterly, be brotherly. Never allow personal dif- 
ferences to influence any act in the lodge room. Lay 
aside personal feelings upon entering the ante-room. 

In a measure members lose their individuality when 
in a Good Templar's lodge ; each becoming a factor in 
the common family. 

Perhaps there might be some personal difference be- 
tween Mr, J. N. Martin and Mr. E. B. Wells as indi- 
viduals, but there must never be any manifestation of it 
between Bro. Martin and Bro. Wells, as members of our 
Order. 

Good Templars are engaged in one work, and each 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 133 

lodge is banded together for an object equally important 
to all — to help " lift the fallen, and save others from 
falling." No spite or pique should be allowed to in- 
terfere with the working out of our general plans of 
reform. 

Frequently differences of opinion will arise upon 
questions which come before the lodge. Each mem- 
ber must abide by the will of the majority. We could 
have no good and just government without this, either in 
lodge or state. 

If in the discussion and adoption of plans of Avork, 
one member has advocated a measure very earnestly, and 
the majority of the lodge has adopted another plan, let 
that member work as heartily to make the project suc- 
cessful as if his own views had been adopted. Let him 
yield gracefully and kindly. Let him be loyal to prin- 
ciple and true to his vows. The influence of one faith- 
ful Templar will be felt for years. 

Let each member endeavor to induce others to join our 
Order. 

While urging outsiders to unite with the lodge, it 
should be remembered that they will have little interest 
in it until they understand its plans and work. They 
will be unable to grasp at once all our advantages as a 
society. 

Care must be taken not to exceed the truth in por- 
traying the " good times " they may expect to enjoy upon 
becoming members. 

Rather say to them that the lodge needs them to help 
make it a pleasant place. Let them understand that 
they too will be expected to contribute toward making 
successful meetings. 

Sometimes new members feel disappointed upon join- 



134 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

ing a lodge, because those who invited them to join have 
led them to think that the meetings were exclusively 
devoted to having a general a good time." Do not, 
therefore, give too great prominence to the social part 
in soliciting others to join the lodge. 

When the consent of a person to become a member 
has been obtained, consider it an imperative duty to call 
at the residence of such person, and accompany him to 
the lodge room upon the night he is to be initiated. 
Never leave him to find his way there as best he can, or 
not at all. No matter how well he may be acquainted 
with the place, he is not familiar with it as a Good Tem- 
plar lodge, and needs a friend to accompany him thither. 
Do not fail in this point, even though he may live in 
the same building in which the lodge meetings are held. 

After the initiation of a candidate, the member who 
proposed him should remain near during intermission 
to introduce him to other members. 

Have a care that he does not feel as a stranger among 
strangers. It would be well if some older member 
would accompany new members to the lodge room for 
several meetings. 

When one member meets another outside the lodge 
room, there should always be a warmer greeting than as 
if simply meeting a passing acquaintance — a more cor- 
dial interest manifested, as if really meeting a brother or 
sister. 

Never leave the lodge room with any unkind feeling 
toward a brother or sister. If they have wronged you, 
forgive them. If their pride will not yield, let yours un- 
bend. You may be wrong even though you feel very 
sure you are right. Lest you be mistaken, ask the par- 
don of brother or sister whom you may have offended. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 135 

Ask their pardon, even though you may feel that they 
should come to you for forgiveness. 

" To err is human, to forgive, divine." 

Let your soul catch a breath of divinity in that attri- 
bute — forgiveness. 

Prejudice, hatred, malice, envy, every evil passion that 
stands like an adamantine wall between human hearts, 
crumbles to dust before the magic touch of tenderness 
and loving kindness. 

Members as well as officers should learn parliamen- 
tary law. Much time will be saved, and useless discus- 
sion avoided if all are familiar with the universal rules 
of deliberative bodies. 

Every member should also study the great questions 
of civil government and political economy involved in 
the temperance reform. Contemplating the necessity of 
an active and concentrated effort against the liquor 
power, over both the individual and the state, they 
should enter the lodge fully convinced of the need of 
the organization, and fully determined to continue in 
the ranks till the end is accomplished. 

Oar members must realize that the obligation of a 
Good Templar is as lasting as life. 

The warfare against intemperance is no " holiday 
campaign." For three thousand years the billows of 
this tide of woe have been rolling down upon this gen- 
eration, until to-day they break with a force almost im- 
possible to withstand. 

For three thousand years fermented and distilled 
drinks have poisoned the blood and brain of the world's 
population. Could we reach every drinker with that 
persuasive eloquence that would lead him towards ab- 
stinence, the old poison would still rankle. 



136 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

It will take more than a single generation to cleanse 
this corruption and give us an unpolluted race. It will 
require more than spasmodic efforts made at irregular 
intervals to effect a cure of diseased physical and moral 
conditions resulting from a hundred generations of ex- 
cess. 

Not only should the Good Templar's pledge be life- 
long, but his work must be life-long if he keeps that 
pledge in its full spirit and meaning. 

The lodge he helps to create for himself, his neigh- 
bors, and his friends, he should bequeath in its full vigor 
and strength to his children. The foundation of a Tem- 
plar lodge is the firm rock of "total abstinence/' let the 
superstructure be reared of enduring granite. It can 
only be done by impressing the members with the mag- 
nitude of the undertaking, and the individual responsi- 
bility of each. 

The circular of the chairman of the Literature Com- 
mittee of R. W. G. L. to dead lodges, issued in April, 
1882, contains much for members to ponder upon ere 
they yield to discouragement, and permit their lodge to 
fail. It says : 

* •& •* " Dead. ' ' What a word of comfort to the drunkard- 
makers of this country, and what a word of discouragement to every 
true loyal Templar. 

A dead lodge means a company disbanded on the battle field, 
when every man is needed to meet the assaults of a united, deter- 
mined foe. Into this graveyard of hope, filled with dead lodges, 
let us, as brothers and sisters, look and see what has brought about 
this disastrous result. 

We enlisted in the Templar army, actuated by the highest mo- 
tives and the grandest impulses of humanity. We knew it was to 
be a bitter struggle, a long continued contest, that it would take 
all our manhood and womanhood to enable us to endure and win. 
With our eyes open to what we were doing, we said, we will take 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. , 137 

an obligation " imperative in its nature, and life-long in its dura- 
tion," to do all in our power to advance the good of the Order and 
the good of temperance. Was ever obligation taken more binding 
upon our honor and conscience ? Certainly there is but one release 
from such vow, — the grave. 

We became members in the grandest, strongest, and best organ- 
ized corps in the temperance army. Was ever a corps dearer to its 
members? Look at its grand record since 1852. See on how many 
battle fields our Templar flag has led the van ! Shall we, dare we, 
falter now ? Each lodge is necessary to the success of the move- 
ment. The Subordinate lodge is the life of the state and national 
work. As the Subordinate lodge grows weak, the whole line 
is weakened. 

Think of the feelings of your G. W. C. T. and G, W. S., as, look- 
ing down the line of battle, they saw your flag trailing in the dust, 
and heard the sad news that your company had proved recreant. 
I plead with you to call the veterans together, and urge them to 
again fall into line. 

The Order of Good Templars is doing more for temperance than 
all other temperance organizations, but it has fallen short of doing 
what it might. Re-organize to work for temperance, and by doing 
so build up the lodge. On the night of reorganization, appoint a 
committee to make a complete canvass of your town or city, to cir- 
culate temperance literature. As soon as the people see you are 
doing practical work, they will be anxious to join and help you. 

You may think I have talked plainly, but I would not dare to 
have done so if you had not been my brother, my sister, loving as 
well as I do the grand old corps of the Good Templars. Sound the 
call, bring the Templars back, and then work to make up for the 
time lost by inaction. 

May the Templar's God bless you in your work. 

If a lodge is weak or in debt, let the members alter- 
nately volunteer to take care of hall instead of hiring and 
paying a janitor. Let no one feel that in the perform- 
ance of such humble duties he demeans himself or fails 
to help the cause as much as he would like. 

The temperance cause may be helped infinitely more 
than we would suppose by little acts, apparently insig- 
nificant in themselves. 



138 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Sweeping floors, dusting furniture, cleaning lamps, or 
blacking stoves, may all contribute toward the success 
of the lodge, and the principles it represents. 

When the infinite records of eternity are unrolled, 
the name of him who performed lovingly the humblest 
service for the cause may be written higher and in 
fairer letters than the names of those upon whom we 
have bestowed our most lavish praise. 

IMPORTANCE OF OBSERVING THE LAW. 

A lodge should never tolerate the notion that some of 
the laws of the Order are useless or unnecessary. All 
our legislation has grown from the combined study, 
judgment, and care of the best minds ever numbered in 
our ranks. Some changes may be found necessary, and 
advancing knowledge of our Order's needs will effect 
them. 

But there can be no safety in the disregard of law. 
If sober, thoughtful members override certain require- 
ments which they deem of little consequence, but which 
their obligation pledges them to regard, how can they 
demand a rigid compliance with provisions deemed non- 
essential by others, but which the sober and thoughtful 
ones regard as of first importance. 

In order to be in a position to exact obedience to the 
requirements of our laws from all members alike, a close 
observance of every detail of our code should be de- 
manded of all. 

No other fair and just means can be devised for con- 
ducting a lodge. 

If a law is to be disregarded, who shall be permitted 
to disobey it? Who shall determine what law is to be 
broken ? Who shall fix a time for obedience or disobe- 
dience? 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 139 

Unless the entire law of the Order is to be set at 
naught, no evasion or disregard could be impartial. 
One member might wish to dispense with some of the 
forms of initiation or other ceremony, and consider it 
unimportant. Another member would use this as an 
excuse for drinking cider, or some other beverage. At- 
tempt to discipline for the latter infraction, and he 
would point to the former, and say that it was tolerated, 
and might perhaps feel that an unfair discrimination 
was made against him in requiring stricter obedience 
from him than from others. 

Nothing can be more damaging to a lodge than the 
notion among members that a clique or ring " run the 
lodge." Favoritism will inevitably result in disaffec- 
tion. 

To obviate these dangers the laws of the Order were 
created, and must be administered. Equal rights and 
privileges can be secured in no other way. 



CHAPTER X. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 

[continued.] 



ORDER OF BUSINESS. 

" Work while you work, and play while you play," 
would be a very good motto for a Good Templar Lodge. 

The order of business provides for recreation as well 
as work. The intermission or recess may be occupied 
with innocent pleasures and "fun" — a "good time" that 
all will enjoy — but the business sessions must be quiet 
and decorous. 

All business to come before the lodge must be pre- 
pared in shape for presentation in advance, and called 
up at the proper time and under the appropriate "order" 
of business. 

I. OPENING CEREMONIES. 

The W. C. T. takes his place promptly at the hour 
fixed for opening, assumes his regalia, and calls to order 
in the manner prescribed in the ritual. 

When the officers and members have taken their 
places, the W. C. T. will observe which officers are ab- 
sent, and will designate some member to fill the place 
pro tern., the Secretary entering the names on the min- 
utes. 

The opening ceremony then proceeds. The singing 
and prayer must not be omitted. 

[140] 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 



141 



Immediately after opening the Guard should notify the 
Sentinel that the lodge is opened, so that members arriv- 
ing after the call to order may not be kept longer in 
waiting. 

II. — CALLING ROLL OF OFFICERS. 

The Secretary should call the roll of officers, as he is 
the officer who keeps the record. The Marshal will rise 
at roll call and answer "present" or "absent" accord- 
ing to the facts as the names of officers are called. 

A roll book ruled as below should be provided 

BOLL OF OFFICERS OF LODGE, NO , I. O. OF G. T. 

FOR THE QUARTER ENDING 18... 



iH 00 rH 



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ft 

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W. C. T., Hiram Jones 1 

W. V. T., Jennie Gray 1 

Secy., Mary Wells 1 

F. Sec, Win. Wallace 1 

Treas., Ida Mills 1 

Chap., Rev. A. Wilson 1 

Mar., Ira Bowman 1 

G., Genie Good 1 

S., Frank Foster 1 

A. Sec. , John New 1 

R. H.S., Mary Wales 1 

L. H. S. , Minnie Jones 1 

D. M. , Fannie Marsh 1 

P. W. C. T., Mrs. J. Dewey 1 

L. D., Henry Haney 1 



13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
13 
11 
10 
13 
9 
10 
11 
13 
13 
13 



A roll book kept in this manner will save much time 
and prevent mistakes, and will show at a glance at the 
end of the quarter the total attendance of each officer. 



142 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

III. READING JOURNAL OF* LAST MEETING. 

The Secretary should be ready, immediately after roll 
call, to read the minutes. They must be in the perma- 
nent record book, written in ink, and the Secretary will 
read from that book, and not from loose memoranda he 
may have kept during the previous session. 

After the reading of the minutes is finished, any mem- 
ber may mention mistakes or may notice omissions or 
suggest any changes required to make the journal a cor- 
rect history of the proceedings of the last session. 

By unanimous consent or by order of the lodge, the 
journal may be corrected to make it correspond with the 

FACTS. 

No part of the minutes of actual transactions of the 
lodge can be expunged, except by unanimous consent. 

IV. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON CANDIDATES. 

The committees called upon to report under this order 
of business were appointed at some previous session — 
usually the last preceding week — to investigate the char- 
acter and intentions of applicants for membership. 

The lodge expects this duty to be faithfully performed. 
The committee must not neglect it. 

While we ought not to turn from our doors any who 
seek to live better lives or who need our associations and 
help in their endeavors to abstain from intoxicants, we 
must use discretion as to whom we shall accept as com- 
ing to us in good faith, and with honest intentions. 

There are instances where a candidate has some sin- 
ister purpose in seeking to unite with the lodge. The 
investigating committee must ascertain the true charac- 
ter of candidates. 

A candidate without moral character, with no fixed 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 143 

principles, without stability or integrity, with no deep 
convictions of right and wrong, cannot safely be admit- 
ted as a member. The committee should report unfa- 
vorably on the applications of those whom they discover 
to be utterly unworthy of confidence. 

The lodge should never ask a dispensation to permit 
the committee to report, candidate to be balloted for and 
initiated on the evening the proposition is made, except 
in rare instances where the candidate is well known, 
thoroughly reliable, and some unusual emergency exists 
which seems to demand immediate action. In this case 
the circumstances should be fully explained to the lodge. 

It may be said that each lodge is the best judge of its 
own interests and needs. This may not always be the 
case. The wisdom and experience of leaders who have 
bestowed years of study and thought upon all questions 
involving the growth and strength of our Order; who 
have watched hundreds of lodges rise, flourish, and fall; 
who have patiently investigated the causes of decadence 
and decline; who have observed the influence of the 
work among all classes of people and in widely varying 
social conditions — this wisdom and experience is a far 
better guide than the hasty judgment of a single lodge. 
It will be found far wiser, in the end, to observe closely 
the laws, and carry them out in their full spirit and 
letter. 

V. BALLOTING ON CANDIDATES. 

The Investigating Committee having reported, the W. 
C. T. will order the ballot. 

If there are two or more names reported by Investi- 
gating Committees, they may be balloted upon collect- 
ively if no objection is offered. 
10 



144 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

The W. C. T. will read aloud and distinctly the name 
of all who are to be balloted for, and will explain clearly 
what kind of ballots accept, and what kind reject appli- 
cants. 

The W. C. T. and W. V. T. will both examine the 
ballot box and observe that no balls are in the compart- 
ment where the ballots are to be deposited. After the 
vote is taken, the same officers will examine the box, and 
the W. CI T. will announce the result. 

What has been said of " Reports of Committees" will 
indicate the circumstances under which it is advisable to 
cast ballots against an applicant. When a committee 
have investigated and report "unfavorably" it is usually 
safest and wisest to reject. 

* Prejudice or personal feeling ought never to influence 
the vote of any member. 

"Will the applicant become a worthy member?" 
" Will he help to build up the lodge and the cause?" 
or "Can the Order benefit and strengthen him?" are the 
only considerations which should influence the vote. 

If immoral habits and vices defile the life of the ap- 
plicant, his admission to membership would, in most 
instances, do more injury to others than the lodge could 
confer benefits upon him. Let there be no hesitancy in 
rejecting such persons. 

It may be urged that the evil reputation is only rumor. 
Granting this, it nevertheless is true, that a common rep- 
utation for immorality rarely fastens upon a person wholly 
innocent. 

Malicious foes may seek to stigmatize an innocent man 
and brand him with vice, but true pure manhood will 
pass through the crucial test devised by their devilish cun- 
ning and malice, and come forth like gold tried in the 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 145 

fire, purified and ennobled. The false, the impure, the 
unworthy, sink beneath the shafts of public calumny 
and rise no more. 

The ballot in the Good Templar lodge, as in the state, 
is a sacred right. Its results, except the mere fact of ac- 
ceptance or rejection, must not be reported by the officers 
inspecting it. One member must not know, or seek to 
know, how another votes. If, by accident, a member dis- 
covers how another has voted on a proposition, it is a 
violation of faith, a violation of the obligation, a viola- 
tion of the principles of common honor and decency, to 
communicate his discovery to others, either outside or in 
the lodge. 

Use the ballot honestly, fairly, conscientiously, to pre- 
serve the honor, vindicate the principles, and advance 
the interests of the lodge. 

VI.— INITIATION OF CANDIDATES. 

Applicants for membership, after being accepted by 
the ballot, may be initiated at once if they are present in 
the ante-room. 

The ritual prescribes the preparatory questions, forms 
of initiation, and responses of officers, and these must 
NOT BE altered, abridged, waived, omitted, or in any 
manner changed in initiating persons never before mem- 
bers of the Order. 

Persons w T ho have previously been members, having 
already been initiated in some lodge, may be received 
after ballot and payment of fees, by simply taking the 
obligation and signing the constitution. 

Initiations should be conducted with decorum. No 
whispering or laughing should be permitted. Let each 
member recall his own initiation, when, if he saw a smile 



146 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

or laugh he imagined it was directed at himself, and was 
thus made to feel ill at ease during the entire ceremony. 
This sensitiveness is experienced by nearly all candidates, 
but more especially by drinking men who are coming 
into the lodge as the first step towards reform. 

A thoughtless levity during his reception has often 
driven a drunkard back to his cups. 

It is a solemn thing to have a human soul and a 
human destiny trembling in the balance, with the whole 
future, possibly, dependent on a few moments of grave 
attention from those who have pledged themselves to use 
their best endeavors to save just such ones. 

Every officer should know his part of the ceremony 
thoroughly. If he is not a good reader he should com- 
mit it to memory, and use his best endeavors to make 
the words impressive. Much depends on the Marshal. 
He must know just how and where to conduct the can- 
didates, and how to address each officer to whom he pre- 
sents them. All this information is contained in the 
ritual and on the Marshal's card, but unless he examines it 
and learns all the movements before he commences initia- 
tion he will often make serious blunders. If he is not 
sure of the movements, let him consult the W. C. T. be- 
fore the time for the ceremony and obtain any informa- 
tion he may require, to enable him to perform his part 
easily, promptly, and gracefully. 

Singing during the initiation adds to the life and spirit. 
Let the odes be practiced by the best singers until they 
can "lead." It is well to have a chorister if there be a 
member suitable to take that place. 

Above all do not let the ceremony drag. It makes 
everybody feel uncomfortable and detracts from the in- 
terest of all. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 147 

At his initiation the new member must be presented 
with a copy of the Constitution and By-Laws of the 
lodge, and should be impressed with the importance of 
those documents and urged to make himself familiar 
with their provisions. He must " sign the Constitution " 
as provided in the ritual. 

VII. — RECESS. 

After initiation an intermission is usually taken for 
congratulation. Let this be sincere and heartfelt, not 
a mere matter of form. Make the new member feel 
welcome. See that he is not neglected and left to sit by 
himself " a stranger in a strange place." If he receives 
no attention this first evening, he may conclude he is not 
wanted, and therefore come no more. 

It may not be as pleasant to converse with this new 
brother or sister, with whose tastes and habits of thought 
we are unfamiliar, as it w r ould be to mingle with the old 
companions with whom we have become intimate by long 
association. But it must be remembered that it is part 
of the great plan of Good Templar work to make the 
lodge " home-like" for even its newest or humblest mem- 
bers. 

Little attentions, introductions to the members, and es- 
pecially to the officers, will go far toward winning the 
heart and confidence of those newly received to member- 
ship. 

Do not neglect the uncultured. 

They may not be able to discuss those finer problems 
in which we feel an interest, yet they may possess a 
wealth of original thought that will give even the most 
scholastic a new view of life and its belongings. 

Above all, do not scorn or neglect the poorer members. 



148 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Some of the noblest souls that ever glorified humanity 
have dwelt beneath the humble garb of poverty, or 
within the habitations of want. 

Let us believe fully in the "universal Fatherhood of 
God, and the universal brotherhood of men/ 7 Look- 
ing upon the humblest, poorest, feeblest brother as the 
" child of a King," we cannot, dare not, pass him by 
with scorn or neglect. 

Let the purpose and aim of our work be still kept in 
view at intermission, as well as in lodge session — at home, 
on the street, everywhere, at all times. 

Make the lodge so pleasant and home-like that no one 
who joins will ever desire to stay away from a single 
meeting. 

Some croakers are fretful and uneasy during recesses, 
apparently thinking that the time thus occupied is lost. 
They mistake. The intermission is often the best part 
of the session in its useful influence. 

Our Order is pre-eminently a social one. We call our 
lodge room a home. But most unhomelike would be that 
place where the members of the family mingled together 
only in the prim order of a lodge session. The pleasant 
relations of brotherhood and sisterhood could never be 
attained except through the freedom from restraint of a 
real home circle. 

Fifteen, twenty minutes, or half an hour consumed in 
social conversation among the members, will often do 
more towards helping them to appreciate the true pur- 
pose of the Order than half a dozen prosy sessions. 

Let the social part of the lodge work be as free and 
unrestrained as possible. Don't cut it short for fear the 
"young folks" will have a "good time." It may be 
possible that some of them are frivolous and care for 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 149 

nothing but fun. Reflect whether it is not better that 
they should seek enjoyment amid the surroundings and 
associations of pledged abstainers than elsewhere. 

The exuberant spirits of the young cannot always be 
curbed within the narrow channel in which flows the 
cold, sombre life of the old. Let men and women of 
maturer age reach across the chasm of years and grasp 
the hand of youth with a kindly pressure and a warm 
sympathy for the, innocent pleasures in which they long 
ago indulged, and both will be benefited — the old by 
the kindling anew of the long dead embers of youthful 
joys and hopes, the young by being lifted toward true, 
earnest manhood and womanhood. 

Many of the darker problems of human life and hu- 
man destiny will be solved when we can bring childhood 
and age into a closer relationship, and a community of 
interest and feeling. 

There will be more manly boys and womanly girls 
when we have more boyish old men and more girlish 
old women. 

Fathers and mothers, look back from the icy shores 
of old age toward the gardens of spring-time loveliness 
where your children gather garlands now, as you were 
gathering in days before. 

Let your hearts grow warm m this sunshine till the 
blood leaps fast and fresh in your veins again. Then 
"as little children" cast your eyes toward the sun-bathed 
shore of promise, where in re-created childhood the soul 
shall dwell in everlasting morning and unfading spring- 
time. 

If we could realize how closely one era of our lives 
is woven into the next — how much of the pique and 
prejudice and passion, how much of the frivolity and 



150 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

caprice of our earlier years we carry with us through 
life, we might look with more complacency upon the 
miniature types of our own past, that now give us an- 
noyance or concern. 

All elements and ages in a lodge should strive to ce- 
ment the whole into a unity of " heart and effort and 
purpose in our great work," and to do this successfully 
may require some concessions from each. If there be no 
principle involved let the concessions be cheerfully made. 

VIII. — PROPOSITIONS FOR MEMBERSHIP. 

This order comes after initiation, so that the proposi- 
tion may go over till the next week for investigation. 

A book of blank propositions is provided. In pro- 
posing a name the blanks should all be filled, and the 
Secretary should fill out the "stub," to serve as a record 
after the proposition has been removed. 

The committee must be appointed immediately, the 
Secretary noting the names of the committee on the 
" stub" of the proposition as well as in his minutes. 

The following week, when the committee report, they 
will sign their names in the blank space on the proposi- 
tion, reporting "favorably" or "unfavorably " as their 
investigations lead them to believe will be for the inter- 
est of the lodge. 

When any member has a "friend to propose" he 
should never wait till the W. C. T. calls that order of 
business and then hastily write the proposition while the 
lodge is kept in waiting, but he should secure the prop- 
osition book from, the Secretary as soon as he enters the 
lodge room and fill a blank, calling the attention of the 
Secretary to the fact that he has made a proposition which 
must come before the lodge at the proper time. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 151 

IX. — -REPORT OF STANDING COMMITTEES. 

The Standing Committees are : 
a. Committee on Finance. 
6. Committee on Care of the Sick. 

c. Room Committee. 

d. Other committees provided in the By-Laws. 
The duties of these committees are explained in the 

By-Laws of the lodge which creates them. 
. The Finance Committee should carefully examine all 
bills and see that each item is correct. They should re- 
quire itemized bills, and if a bill presented only charges 
the lodge "To Sundries," without specifying the quan- 
tity, kind, or amount of each article, it should be sent 
back for correction. 

To insist on. accurate business methods does no wrong 
or injustice to any one. The Finance Committee must 
carefully examine and compare the books, vouchers, ac- 
counts, and reports of the Secretary, Financial Secretary, 
and Treasurer, at the close of each quarter, and see that 
they are correct. This is not mere form, but must be 
done conscientiously and thoroughly, every item passing 
in review before them. 

The Committee on the Care of the Sick should give per- 
sonal attention to cases of illness of any brother or sis- 
ter. They may have home friends who will bestow every 
needed attention, but even if this be true, they will be 
cheered, in the loneliness of the sick room, by the knowl- 
edge that the lodge companions remember them in their 
hours of suffering, with fraternal sympathy. 

If the invalid have no home friends to minister to his 
wants, it becomes even more imperative that the com- 
mittee should faithfully perform its duty. It may be 
that the invalid is one of those who have newly begun 



152 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

a life of abstinence ; it may be one whom you have la- 
bored to bring from the darkness of dissipation into the 
light of temperance teaching. If so this is the time to 
show the real spirit of the Order, its warm tenderness, 
its Christ-like compassion. The heart which was only 
half repentant when it first came to our altars, will be 
melted and molded into nobler form and purity by these 
manifestations of the genuine charity our Order teaches. 

The Room Committee must see that the lodge room is 
in perfect order for the weekly session. 

It must be clean. No matter whether it be a " dug- 
out " on the far frontier or a richly carpeted and tapes- 
tried hall in a great city, it will not be pleasant as a 
meeting place unless kept neat and tidy. 

Floors, lamps, stoves, and furniture should be clean. 

The regalias must also be kept in good condition. Xo 
member will wear a greasy, dingy regalia willingly. The 
Room Committee, in conjunction with the Marshal, will 
see that the regalia is in order. 

Whatever acts of official duty any of these commit- 
tees may have performed at the session, or in the inter- 
val between meetings, should be reported in writing 
when the ninth order of business is called up. 

X. REPORTS OF SPECIAL COMMITTEES. 

When reports are due from special committees they 
must be prepared and ready for presentation at this time. 

Like all other reports, they should be in writing, 
should set forth in detail the specific work entrusted to 
the committee and performed by them, and should be 
signed by all the members of the committee. 

XI. APPLICATIONS FOR DEGREES. 

The Financial Secretary will report under this order 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 153 

of business, the names of all who have paid the degree 
fee, and will continue to report all such names until they 
have received the degrees for which they have applied 
and paid. 

Applications may be made at any time, by paying the 
fee fixed to the Financial Secretary, for which sum he 
will give his receipt, setting forth the fact that it was in 
payment of degree fees. 

XII.— REPORTS OF OFFICERS OR TRUSTEES. 

The trustees may report their official action, under 
this order of business at any meeting. The lodge should 
be promptly informed of these acts. The name signifies 
that a trust has been committed to them. To delay re- 
ports, or make them carelessly is, in some measure, a be- 
trayal of the trust. 

With the last meeting of each quarter, the books and 
accounts for that quarter must be closed. Before the first 
meeting in the ensuing quarter the Sec, F. Sec, Treas., 
and Marshal must prepare written reports. These re- 
ports must all be read when the twelfth order of busi- 
ness is called up. 

The form of these reports is given in the chapter re- 
lating to duties of officers. 

XIII. ELECTION, INSTALLATION, OR SPECIAL ORDERS. 

At the last meeting in each quarter, officers for the 
ensuing quarter must be elected. The Constitution pre- 
scribes the manner of election. As suggested in the 
" Duties of Marshal," if that officer will provide in ad- 
vance a quantity of clean white paper, cut in slips for 
ballots, it will greatly facilitate business. 

At the first meeting in the quarter the new officers are 
installed, according to the order laid down in the ritual. 



154 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Installation must not take place till all constitutional re- 
quirements have been complied with. 

If any business is postponed to a future meeting and 
made a special order for that meeting, it will be called 
up by the Secretary under this head. 

XIV. UNFINISHED BUSINESS. 

All business which was before the lodge at the previ- 
ous meeting, and which was not completed, will be called 
up by the secretary as " unfinished business/' 

XV. — COMMUNICATIONS AND NEW BUSINESS. 

When this order is called the Secretary and Lodge 
Deputy should be ready to read all communications 
which they have received from the Grand Lodge or 
from other sources concerning; the lodge. These officers 
must not forget such communications, or leave them "at 
home." They are not the property of the officer, but 
were addressed to him as a means of reaching the lodge. 

Any member having any new business or plans of 
work to propose will bring it before the lodge under 
order X V. 

XVI. COLLECTION OF QUARTERLY DUES. 

Members should go to the Financial Secretary's desk 
during recess or before opening and pay up all dues they 
owe to the lodge. If any have failed to do this, the F. 
S. should present a bill when this order is called. Let 
this be done promptly and impartially, and no one will 
be offended. The bill system is more fully outlined 
under "Duties of Financial Secretary." 

The lodge must not allow a member to sit in lodge 
session with dues unpaid. If one does another may, 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 155 

and soon the whole financial basis of the Order would 
be undermined. 

XVII. GOOD OF THE ORDER. 

No general rule can be laid down that will cover all 
contingencies of lodge management under Good of the 
Order. 

As there is a wide divergence in social conditions, 
there will, of necessity, be much variation in the meth- 
ods of maintaining the interest. 

It should always be the aim to render the lodge meet- 
ings so entertaining that every member will feel a loss 
in being absent from a single meeting. 

Members who study the best methods, who give time 
and thought to the subject, will be able to determine 
what systeui will best secure these results. 

Unless some member or members will seek to perfect 
plans for the conduct of the meetings, no directions 
that could be given will insure success. It rests with 
the lodge, after all suggestions and plans have been 
made by others, to fix upon that which shall meet their 
own wants. 

In lodges composed largely of members who have few 
other opportunities for social gatherings, the social fea- 
ture should be prominent. 

Care must be taken that no member be neglected dur- 
ing this part of the evening's entertainment. To break 
up into little knots or groups, leaving the bashful and 
timid, and those who are almost strangers, to entertain 
themselves as best they can, will inevitably estrange some 
of the neglected ones and drive them from the lodge. 

No one can tell how useful and beneficial these mem- 
bers would have become if they could have received 



156 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

proper attention from the older Good Templars until 
they became acquainted with their brothers and sisters 
and grew familiar with the workings of the lodge. 

This neglect is the result of thoughtlessness rather 
than intentional rudeness, and our members will doubt- 
less avoid it when reminded of its possible injurious con- 
sequences. 

The introduction of some quiet and instructive game 
during intermission may help to unite all into a pleasant 
social circle. Rude and boisterous play should never be 
tolerated, but quiet amusements in which ladies and 
gentlemen may join without violating any rules of de- 
corum are often of utility in advancing the fraternal 
feeling which is one of the vital elements of our success. 

There are very few Good Templar lodges but would 
profit by regular literary exercises during "Good of the 
Order " in their weekly meetings. This field is so wide 
that no difficulty should be experienced in making a lit- 
erary programme which will contain something of inter- 
est to every member, no matter what may be his literary 
attainments. 

LITERARY CONTESTS. 

Many lodges have adopted the following plan, first 
introduced and perfected by B. F. Parker, G. W. Sec. 
of Wisconsin, U. S. A., with various modifications to 
suit their respective localities and wants. It should be 
adopted at the beginning of the quarter, and is designed 
to cover the literary work of one entire term, after which 
the companies should always be re-arranged for the next 
term. 

A committee of three, who are to be the judges and 
umpires during the quarter, is first chosen. The W. C. 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 



157 



T. may be one of this committee, or it may be made 
to consist of the ¥, C. T. alone, instead of three mem- 
bers. 

Two leaders are then elected. They select their as- 
sistants or deputies, and then choose alternately until all 
members in good standing have been chosen. 

The judges prepare a roll book, giving the list of 
members in each company separately, according to the 
following plan, which shows the attendance for one 
quarter : 



1st Company. 















CO 


CO 


o 
















CO 


<M 


Oi 


rH 


<N 


CO 




CO 


O 


1^- 


CM 


CD 


A 


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r3 


^3 


r£ 


CO 


rH 


CM 


<M 










o 


o 


o 


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o 










■§ 


0) 


(15 




c3 






c3 


o3 


ft 




ft 


ft 


fe 


Ph 


fe 


fr 


S 


a 


a 


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<1 


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<! 






D. E. Jones, Leader. 

A. T. Gould, Asst 

Jennie Weenis 

Mark Henry 

Antony France 

Mary May 

Nellie Wood 

Frank Endge 

Norman James 

Fannie June 

Alice Gray 



Total each evening Ill 



1 


1 


1 


1 


1 


1 


1 


1 


1 


1 


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1 


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1 


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1 


1 


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1 


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1 


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1 


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1 


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11 


7 


9 


11 


9 


11 


9 


9 


11 


11 


9 


8 


9 



13 
9 
12 
13 
11 
13 
5 
13 
12 
11 
13 



124 



When "Good of the Order " is reached, the judges 
should immediately call the roll of members on each side 
and mark each member present or absent, as the case 
may be. No member should be credited as present un- 
less actually in the room at roll call. 

Three evenings of the quarter will probably be so oc- 
cupied that the literary entertainment cannot be given 
unless the meeting is prolonged to a late hour, which 
should never be done, or at most but rarely. 

This will leave five meetings for each " company." 



158 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

The companies must have an equal number of meetings 
during the term or an injustice will be done. 

The first week after installation the " first company" 
will present the whole of the programme of entertain- 
ment for the evening. 

The following week the " second company" will give 
the literary entertainment. 

The next week the first company again presents a 
programme, and in this manner the companies occupy 
alternate evenings during the quarter. 

A schedule of " credits" is adopted by the lodge, to be 
given to the company earning them. It may be the 
same as here given or varied to suit the circumstances. 

TABLE OF CREDITS. 

Each candidate initiated (proposed by any member of either 
company, credit to be given that company, whenever in- 
itiated) 100 

Company having greatest number present at roll call 60 

For greatest aggregate attendance during the quarter 250 

PROGRAMME CREDITS, TO BE CREDITED THE COMPANY PRESENTING 
THE ENTERTAINMENT. 

Each original essay 70 

Each original poem 75 

Each original oration 70 

Each declamation 50 

Each recitation 50 

Each select reading 35 

Dialogue (for each person taking part) 20 

Pantomime ( for each person taking part) 20 

Tableaux (for each person taking part) 15 

Each song 40 

Each duet (vocal) 50 

Each duet (instrumental) , 40 

Dialogues or plays where costumes are used and stage arrange- 
ments made (each character) 30 

Extemporaneous remarks 5 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 159 

The lodge should provide a permanent record book for 
the judges, who should keep the carefully-entered state- 
ment of credits earned by either side in such manner that 
any or all misunderstandings may be avoided by refer- 
ence to the record. 

The proper method of keeping this record is here 
given : 

FRIDAY EVENING, FEBRUARY 9TH, 1883. 

Entertained by First Company, D. E. Jones, Leader. 

Song, by Fannie June 40 

Declamation, by Mark Henry 50 

Original poem, by A. T. Gould 75 

Dialogue, by Alice Gray, Norman James, Mary May 60 

Song, by Nellie Wood 40 

Tableaux, by Antony France and Fannie June* 15 

Original oration, by D. E. Jones 70 

Select reading, by Jennie "Weeuis 35 

Dialogue (in costume), by Frank Rudge and Mark Henry* 30 

Credited first company, on programme 415 

Initiation, Myra Wake (proposed Feb. 2, by A. T. Gould) 100 

515 

SECOND COMPANY. 

Majority present (first company 7, second company 11) 60 

f Hiram Jenks (proposed Feb. 2, by John Work) 100 

Initiations, J Nannie Wood (proposed Feb. 2, by John Work) 100 

j Samuel Snyder (proposed Feb. 2, by Allen Good) . ..100 

360 
At the close of the quarter the judges will add the 
credits earned by each company and declare the result. 
The company having the least number of credits will 
perform some duty, agreed upon before the com- 
mencement OF THE CONTEST. 

* Not credited because already credited in another part. 

n 



160 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

It is imperative that the nature of this forfeit shall be 
determined in advance, so that all may thoroughly un- 
derstand what is to be expected of the losing company. 

Very interesting, pleasant, and useful acts may be re- 
quired of the losers. 

They may furnish a supper, either in the lodge room 
or at some private house, receiving the winners as guests 
and attending their wants courteously as hosts. This 
furnishes a pleasant evening of social recreation, and may 
be a source of much profit to the lodge by cementing the 
bond of fellowship, which ought to unite all true Tem- 
plars. 

Another useful forfeit is to require of the defeated 
company that they raise funds by individual contribu- 
tion, festival, or other means, for the purchase of furni- 
ture or other supplies needed by the lodge. 

A simpler forfeit would be the performing of janitor 
work, cleaning and adorning the lodge room, and simi- 
lar duties, by the losing company. 

Each lodge will readily determine what shall most 
contribute to its benefit in these contests. 

QUESTION BOX. 

A box is sometimes provided, with a small opening in 
the top through which a slip of paper containing some 
question may be inserted. The box is kept locked and 
is placed on the secretary's desk, where members may 
deposit their questions at any time. When " Good of 
the Order " is called, the secretary, or a committee ap- 
pointed for that purpose, unlocks the box and proceeds 
to draw out and read the questions. The first question 
is read and discussed before reading the next. 

The question is usually addressed to some member, 



CONDUCTING A LODGE. 161 

and if it cannot be answered impromptu, he is given one 
week to prepare an answer. No discussion is permitted 
until the party addressed has given his answer. 
The form of question is as follows : 

"Bro. Ephraim Jones: 

u What did President Thomas Jefferson say of intemperate men 
in public office? 1 ' 
"Sister Jennie Gray: 

" Where and how did the Washingtonian temperance societies 
originate?" 
" Bro. Adam Bede : 

" When and where was the first Good Templar lodge organized ?" 

The questions may cover a wide range of subjects, in- 
cluding history, geography, art, science, and literature, 
and may be made a means of inducing study and of 
extending useful information. 

MUSICAL EXERCISES. 

In all instances where it is practicable, a lodge should 
strive to find a place of meeting where they may have 
the use of some musical instrument, if they are not so 
fortunate as to own one. 

No people, however barbarous, have ever been found 
who have not had some instrument by which the natural 
desire for musical sounds may be gratified. Among sav- 
ages these tones are but a horrible clangor, which, as 
enlightenment and culture dawn upon a people, become 
softened and refined into those melodious sounds civil- 
ization delights to hear. 

Let the lodge provide, if possible, for an occasional 
"song service" for an evening's entertainment. Relig- 
ious and patriotic hymns and songs may be used, giving 
variety to the programme. 

At every meeting some singing should be arranged for, 



162 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

under "Good of the Order/' There are so many good 
and cheap song and hymn books now published (hat no 
suggestion need be made concerning what book to use. 
Many temperance hymn and glee books are in use, and a 
lodge may easily provide good songs. 

There need be no fear of singing the same songs too 
often. Some of the beautiful old Sabbath school songs, 
heard year after year, still retain their beauty and fresh- 
ness. It is not necessary to provide new songs every 
meeting. An old song that is good, is better than a dozen 
that have no merit, even though new. 

Finally, let every meeting be full of varied exercises. 



CHAPTER XL 



OUTSIDE WORK. 



PUBLIC MEETINGS. 

In addition to the regular work of the lodge room 
every lodge should strive to make its influence felt by 
outside work. The Templar should ever be found in 
readiness to assist any band of temperance workers in 
their efforts to relieve society from the evils of the drink 
curse. 

Every lodge should take the initiative in outside work 
in the community in which it exists. 

The first step in this direction is holding public meet- 
ings at frequent intervals. 

A portion of such meetings might be wholly supplied 
with entertaining exercises by members themselves. In 
this case the best talent should be selected, and a suita- 
ble and appropriate programme provided. The exercises 
may be varied with general literary and other entertain- 
ment, but the main portion should be temperance selec- 
tions and speeches of such character as to lead the public 
sentiment in the direction of our highest ideals. Meet- 
ings properly conducted on this plan are highly success- 
ful in bringing our Order prominently before the people 
and interesting them in its plans and operations. 

In addition to these meetings, the lodge should ar- 
range for occasional free lectures from popular speakers, 

[163] 



164 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

who are qualified to instruct the people in the principles 
of the reform. 

Particular caution must be observed in employing 
lecturers. A good speaker, who has studied the subject, 
should always be secured. The first question to settle 
in selecting a lecturer is : Who will best serve the interest 
of the cause and of our lodge? Perhaps the best means 
of judging who will do most to benefit will be discovered 
when we consider who will do least 

A few safe rules may determine whom to avoid: 

1st. Never employ a "teamp." 

One who comes into a community with a roll of printed 
or written puffs from obscure country newspapers and 
unknown persons, may be good, but the chances are all 
against it. The probabilities of his being the speaker 
wanted are still smaller if he presents himself in person 
and desires to lecture within a few days. This method 
of becoming acquainted should render him an object of 
suspicion. If he writes, enclosing these testimonials and 
references and giving ample time to investigate, it can 
be ascertained whether he is worthy of confidence; if he 
does not give this opportunity his services should usually 
be declined. 

2d. Do not employ workers who offer to 

TAKE A COLLECTION AS THEIR COMPENSATION. 

No one can afford to work for such pay. The thought, 
the culture, the preparation, the genius, that would be 
successful in public lecturing is worth more in the world's 
markets than the pitiful recompense of a few copper 
coins thrown into a contribution box. Ability, genius, 
and culture will not often consent to accept such scant 
remuneration. Those who will work for such pay are 
not persons who will help our cause. 



OUTSIDE WORK. 165 

3d. Do NOT EMPLOY LECTURERS WHOSE SOLE QUAL- 
IFICATION IS THEIR ABILITY TO REPEAT THE STORY OF 
FORMER VICES. 

Many noble men have been reformed and saved from 
the evil end toward which they seemed drifting. Often 
they become true and faithful workers. Sometimes they 
win the entire confidence of community. But those of 
them who possess real merit will dwell lightly on the 
dark episodes of their wasted years, and study to pre- 
sent the fundamental principles of temperance. 

The constant retailing of stale stories of delirium 
tremens and drunken frenzy palls on the public taste. 
Through this mode of presenting the question many 
earnest sympathizers with the cause have been impressed 
with a notion that membership in a temperance society 
is a sort of " brand of Cain," indicating that a man has 
some day been "down in the depths" of shame and deg- 
radation. 

4th. Never employ an infidel, or a cynic who 

SNEERS AT CHRISTIANITY AND THE CHURCHES. 

Our reform is based upon the broad principles of 
bible truth and Christian faith. Any attempt to build 
on other foundation must fail. In the vanguard of the 
temperance hosts the banners of the cross have always 
waved. To scoff at religion is to insult our truest, 
bravest soldiers. 

One who has no religious faith has no " sheet anchor." 
He is a drifting hulk tossed by billows on uncertain seas. 
He may float in placid waters to-day ; to-morrow he may 
be driven by storms upon the shoals of doubt, or broken 
against the rocks of false belief. False to his God, he 
cannot be true to his fellow-man. 

We cannot afford to endorse such men. They may 



166 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

be brilliant; they may be attractive; they may draw; 
but they spread their poison, to work its destruction 
after they are gone. 

5th. Never employ lecturers of questionable 

MORALS OR INTEGRITY. 

He who preaches morality and honesty must practice 
these virtues. No other qualifications can compensate 
for lack of these. 

Let it be remembered that we must bear the onus of 
our worker's faults. No matter how much we may, in 
heart, condemn his errors or vices, the public will ac- 
count him as our representative if we bring him before 
them. No matter how loudly we may disclaim against 
these faults, we cannot escape from public censure for 
our partial endorsement of the man. 

We must have clean men and true women to represent 
our cause. The half-reformed inebriate, with the coarse- 
ness of old companionship clinging to him still ; the 
skeptic, with his attacks upon Christianity; the irrespon- 
sible temperance tramp, with the airs and importunities 
of a beggar ; the immoral and the gross — should alike 
be discountenanced. 

6th. Never hunt for the cheapest. 

Determine what work is wanted. Find who can do 
that work. Then hire him and pay him what he asks. 
It will pay, even though the sum be five times greater 
than some other would have asked. Twenty-five dol- 
lars, or fifty, is cheaper, if the desired end can be at- 
tained, than five dollars, or even two, expended without 
accomplishing any results. 



OUTSIDE WORK. 167 

WHAT LECTURERS TO EMPLOY, AND HOW TO SECURE 

THEM. 

Subordinate lodge officers and members may be unac- 
quainted with the many candidates for popular favor on 
the lecture platform, and therefore unable to select the 
man best able to serve them. In that case, and in all 
cases where a lodge desires the services of lecturers, cor- 
respondence should be opened with the G. W. C. T. or 
G. W. Sec. several weeks in advance of the time the 
lecturer's services are required. Those officers may be 
arranging for a series of appointments for some worker 
or workers who are adapted to the requirements of the 
lodge asking advice. If so, they can no doubt send the 
lodge, at exactly the right time, some one who can be of 
substantial benefit to them, and also save them consider- 
able expense by fixing dates successive to other points in 
the immediate vicinity. 

No lodge should employ anyone who is not endorsed 
by its Grand Lodge or Grand Lodge Executive. 

Worth, integrity and fitness, will make their mark. 
Genuine merit will force its way to public recognition. 
The Grand Worthy Chief Templar or Secretary are 
looking out for talent. There need be no fears but they 
will know all who are doing good work or worthy of 
confidence. 

WHEN TO HAVE LECTURES. 

It would be well if every lodge could hold one public 
meeting each quarter, and have a lecture delivered under 
its auspices. 

Special work is sometimes profitable. A series of 
meetings for one or two weeks arouses the people to ac- 
tion, when a single speech would scarcely awaken them 



168 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

from their torpor. But such work should not be suc- 
ceeded by a whole year of apathy. 

An occasional reminder that the lodge is busily at 
work at all seasons is needed. Keep the fact before the 
people that Good Templars are watchful, acti ve, vigilant. 

The oftener they can come before the public in the ca- 
pacity of a working temperance force the better. 

Many communities never hear a temperance lecture 
except when a Good Templar lodge employs a speaker 
and arranges for a public meeting. In such communi- 
ties the Order is esteemed highly even by those who will 
not enter its ranks. 

Do not wait for Grand Lodge to send a speaker and 
pay him. They cannot furnish all the lectures needed 
with the limited means at their disposal. 

Whenever a lecture is deemed essential to the work, 
let the expense be calculated or estimated carefully by a 
committee appointed for that purpose. They will report: 

Glendale, Fla., Mar. 5th , 1882. 
To the Officers and Members of Aldine Lodge No. 100 I. 0. of G. T. : 
Your committee, appointed to ascertain the expense of procuring 
a lecturer for one or two evenings in April, beg leave to report: 

They have corresponded with Senator Wayne, of N. C, and 
James Brown, M.P., of London. Ont., both members of our Order 
and popular lecturers, who have agreed to come on the following 
terms : 

Senator Wayne, $50, one night: $75, two nights. 

Hon. Jas. Brown, M.P., $25, one night; $40 two nights. 

And expenses additional. 

Senator Wayne's expenses would be: 

E. R. and steamer fare (round trip), $38 

Board 14 

Hand-bills and advertising..... 6 

Hall rent 15 

Total expenses $73 



OUTSIDE WORK. 169 

Hon. Jas. Brown's expenses would be: 

R. R. and steamer fare (round trip) $68 

Board 8 

Hand-bills and advertising 6 

Hall rent , 15 

Total expenses $97 

One lecture by Senator Wayne would therefore entail a total ex- 
pense of $123; two lectures, $148. 

One lecture by Hon. Jas. Brown would cost $122; two would 

cost $137.* 

Submitted in F., H., and C, 

ARTHUR WOOD, 
JAMES BEACH, 
NETTIE OAKLEY, 

Com. on Lecture. 

BAISING FUNDS FOR LECTURES. 

If the lodge decide to employ Senator Wayne for 

two evenings, they will know from this report just what 

it will cost, and may provide the necessary funds. It is 

not likely that lodges would have the amount on hand 

that could be spared from their other expenses for the 

purpose of paying the speaker. A working committee 

must therefore be appointed to raise the necessary funds. 

This committee will draw up a contract, and circulate 

among the business men and friends of the cause to 

secure the required amount. A paper like the following 

will answer : 

We, the undersigned citizens of Glendale, hereby agree to pay 
to the Aldine Lodge No. 100, I. O. of Gr. T., the sums set opposite our 
respective names, in consideration of said lodge procuring the ser- 
vices of Senator Wayne, of N. C, for two free public lectures on tem- 
perance in the months of April or May, 1882 : 

Names. Amount. 



* The figures here given are not intended to represent an esti- 
mate of actual expenses, but merely to indicate the items that 
must be considered. 



170 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

The committee need have no hesitation in presenting 
this to the public, nor will the people hesitate to respond. 
Let it be understood that the lodge always furnishes 
at its public lectures the best possible talent attainable ; 
that it always gives full value for every dollar paid by 
outside friends, — and the money will always be forth- 
coming. 

In raising funds, the old form and idea, " How much 
will you give? " should never be adopted. The amount 
each person puts in is not a gift, and the notion of char- 
ity or benefaction should never be permitted to enter the 
minds of the people. It is no more a donation than a 
sum paid for city waterworks or the maintenance of 
schools is a donation. The public are to receive a re- 
turn for their investment. They should pay for what 
they receive. 

It is no more the duty of a Good Templar lodge to 
furnish free lectures for the outside public than it is the 
duty of a grocer, who happens to carry the only stock of 
sugar in the town, to furnish it free to the whole popu- 
lation. The grocer takes the responsibility of putting 
the stock before the people, and they purchase and pay 
for it. The Good Templar lodge takes the same re- 
sponsibility in regard to putting a lecturer before the 
people, and they should pay their share of the expense. 
It is a business transaction. 

COLLECTIONS. 

The sooner the old collection system — passing a hat or 
a box — is abandoned, the better for the work. The 
sooner society realizes that an occasional contribution of 
a few of the smallest coins minted will never advance 
our great work as it should be carried on, the sooner we 
shall be ready to adopt a sound financial system. 



OUTSIDE WORK. 171 

When the old method of raising funds by passing a 
hat at the close of a meeting is forever abandoned, and 
" honest pay for honest work" has become the motto, a 
better class of talent can be permanently secured in our 
lecture fields. 

Men, upon whom we might depend for valuable ser- 
vice, will not humiliate themselves by allowing the beg- 
garly hat or box to be passed before their very eyes, " to 
raise a little money to help our brother along," as the 
chairman often says in asking for the collection. Such 
an expression is an insult to any sensitive nature. 

A chairman of good sense and good judgment would 
never use language so humiliating. But unfortunately 
many men who preside at meetings have neither sense nor 
judgment, and thoughtlessly say what wounds the feel- 
ings, and belittles the requirements of the occasion. 

A brusque, hearty old gentleman, who appreciated the 
importance of paying an honest price for the work done, 
recently called upon the audience at the close of a public 
temperance meeting to pay the speaker. He said : 

Friends, you have listened to a good speech. It was full of facts; 
you know they were facts. It bore evidence of culture, thought, 
profound study. It cost something to discipline the mind into 
habits of coneise thinking, that such clear, convincing arguments 
could be evolved. This discipline cost years of labor, years that 
you have spent in carving out fortunes behind your counters or in 
the marts of trade. 

Our speaker came here to do your work, — work you have neg- 
lected shamefully. He has done that work well. This meeting 
will leave an impress upon minds in this audience that will not be 
effaced years hence. Now what will you do ? I believe you are 
honest in your business transactions, and that you will pay for 
what you have received. But we must do even more than that. 
The next town our friend visits may have less honor and honesty 
than you have, and may sneak out without paying the debt it owes 
to him. It is scarcely less valuable to us that this service should 



172 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

be rendered elsewhere than here, therefore we must pay our debt 
in such large measure as to compensate for loss that other com^ 
munities inflict. I consider my part of the indebtedness five dol- 
lars. Here is my money. What will the rest of you pay ? 

Twenty-five dollars was immediately raised. Before 
the same audience, only two or three days previously, a 
very eloquent and gifted lady had delivered an address on 
the same subject, fully equal to the lecture of the speaker 
already mentioned. The chairman was an old gentleman, 
rich, ignorant, stingy. This is the way in which he 
asked the audience to pay their dues : 

Brethren and Sisters. I can't tell you how much I have enjoyed 
this meeting. Our sister, who has spoke to us understands the 
whole subject. I could see you liked her talk just as well as I did. 

Now she wants us to raise her a little money to help her out of 
town, and we are going to pass the hat. If all of you give a penny 
it will be quite a little bit, so you see you don't have to give much 
apiece. 

Then he launched out in a long, rambling, dry series 
of reminiscences of commonplace events of his early life, 
which he appeared to think bore some relation to the 
temperance question. After continuing in this strain 
twenty-five minutes, and wearying the audience almost 
beyond endurance, he asked two deacons to "pass the 
hat/' which operation yielded the munificent sum of two 
dollars and seven cents. 

As these were actual occurrences, the name of the place 
is not given. The facts are mentioned as illustrations of 
the different modes of raising money by collections. 

The worst features of the collection system are : 

1st. The unkindness to the speaker, in putting him 
before the people as a recipient of their charities. 

2d. The opportunity it gives the parsimonious to evade 
their share of the responsibility of payment. 



OUTSIDE WORK. 173 

It is far easier to raise money in advance to pay for a 
lecture, or series of lectures, than to raise it at the meet- 
ings held. Every man who is approached on the subject 
beforehand will see that something depends on him, and 
will feel that he must pay liberally or the whole project 
may fail. The same man, after the lectures have been 
delivered, would drop a few pence into the contribution 
box, and feel that his responsibility ended there. 

Keep these rules ever in view-: 

1st. Employ only good men. 

2d. Pay good prices. 

3d. Have the cash on pi and in advance to pay 
when the work is done. 

By observing these rules the lodge will always find it- 
self able to secure the best talent, and will be able thereby 
to establish itself in the confidence of the community. 

ARRANGING FOR AND CONDUCTING MEETINGS. 

When it is determined to hold one or more meetings, 
under the auspices of the lodge, the committee appointed 
to make the arrangements should consist of discreet, ac- 
tive, and experienced members who will attend to all of 
the details. 

I. SECURING LECTURER. 

The first duty of the committee wall be to secure a 
lecturer. Haxing fixed on the man, correspondence 
should be opened with him to ascertain the date at which 
he can be secured. If he comes a long distance care 
should be taken that sufficient time be allowed for the 
journey, so that any failure to connect by railway or 
steamship lines would not prevent his reaching the place 
in time. The compensation, date, time of starting, route 
of travel of the speaker, should all be understood by the 



174 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

committee, as exigencies may arise in which all these 
facts would be needed. Especially let there be no mis- 
takes about the dates and compensation. 

II. — HALL. 

The next duty of the committee will be to secure suit- 
able hall, church, or other building for the dates on 
which the lectures are to be given. Let there be no un- 
certainty about the matter. Fix the date, price, and 
every particular so clearly as to avoid all possibility of a 
misunderstanding. Make a contract with the parties 
responsible for the management of the building desired. 
Take no uncertain or conditional answers. Be sure of a 
place for holding the public meetings before taking an- 
other step. 

III. — ADVERTISING. 

Speaker and hall having been secured, the next step 
will be to make the announcements as widely as possi- 
ble. No means of advertising should be neglected. 

The press is probably the best medium of advertising. 
If a daily paper is published in the town, occasional 
items should be inserted two or three times each week 
for some weeks before the date. These should be short 
and pointed, — incidents in the life or public career of the 
speaker; opinions of the press elsewhere; endorsements 
by well-known men. During the last week before the 
lecture, similar items should appear every day, a few 
lines in a place here and there in the paper, announcing 
the time and attractions. 

These notices should be paid for, a contract for them 
having been made in advance. The columns of a news- 
paper should no more be considered " free for all," than 
the tables of a hotel. 



OUTSIDE WORK. 175 

Hand-bills and posters should be circulated freely and 
posted widely. Notices should be sent to the different 
pulpits on two Sabbaths previous to the meetings, with 
the request, signed by the committee, that they be read 
at the morning and evening services. 

Similar notices should be sent to the public schools. 

Let the announcement be so thoroughly circulated 
through these various means that no one will fail to learn 
of date and place. 

IV. — CHAIRMAN. 

Always select a chairman for the meetings beforehand. 
Let him be a man of dignity, culture, and refinement ; 
a man having the respect and confidence of the commu- 
nity. He should be chosen with especial reference to his 
ability to preside. Men who would make long-winded 
speeches in introducing the lecturer; men who would 
bedaub him with ill-judged flattery; men who would 
bore the audience in opening or closing, should be avoided 
in choosing a chairman. 

When the right man is found, consult him and ascer- 
tain if he will accept, and if he will, explain to him fully 
the order of exercises and plan of the meeting and give 
him entire charge. When the programme is fully ar- 
ranged, furnish him with a copy, that he may announce 
each part in its proper order and without confusion. 

In the introduction of the " speaker of the evening," 
he will avoid unnecessary words. A simple statement 
like the following will cover all points required in an 
introductory speech : 

" Ladies and gentlemen : The Good Templars of our city, ever 
anxious to keep prominently before the public mind the great is- 
sues of the temperance reform, have arranged for this meeting, and 
secured the services of an honored worker in the cause. His name 

12 



176 



THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 



has, no doubt, long been familiar to most of you, and his talents 
need no encomiums from me. 

I have the pleasure of introducing to you the Honorable Senator, 
Mr. Wayne, of North Carolina. " 

V. — MUSIC. 

Suitable singing should be arranged. Two pieces of 
music at the opening, and one at the closing, add to the 
evening's entertainment. Temperance selections adapted 
to the occasion should be chosen if possible. 

Words adapted to old and well-known music will be 
found in many collections of temperance songs. 

Appropriate words may be selected, and printed slips 
containing them distributed among all the singers in the 
audience. The airs being familiar to all, the entire as- 
semblage can unite in singing. 

No adequate estimate can be made of the value of ring- 
ing campaign songs, in awakening enthusiasm and in- 
spiring both speaker and audience. This part of the pro- 
gramme should never be neglected. 

YI. — PRAYER. 

The pastor of one of the leading churches, or, if none 
can be secured, some layman of high standing in some 
Christian church, should be waited on and invited to 
make an opening prayer. 

Our Order and the world should know that we are in 
relations of perfect harmony with the Christian world. 
Our work is the exemplification of practical Christianity 
in saving our fellows from the curse of intemperance and 
the dramshop. 

We recognize our feebleness in coping with the mon- 
ster evil. We look to God for help in our extremity. 
At all times, in all places, amid any circumstances, the 



OUTSIDE WORK. 177 

Templar should be ready to " look to that One who was 
in the beginning, is now, and shall be evermore, for 
strength." 

Like the introductory remarks of the chairman, the 
opening prayer should be short. Pastors who have a 
habit of petitioning in every public prayer for all the 
good and desirable things in the universe to be accom- 
plished, specifically designating each separate blessing 
and explaining the manner of its bestowal, closing with 
the cant phrase u as we are not heard for our much 
speaking" need not be sought and invited to open our 
public meetings, or indeed any others. 

VII. — THE PLATFORM. 

If the hall is a large one, with a platform of consider- 
able extent, and an audience of proportionate size is ex- 
pected, the committee should invite prominent citizens 
to take seats on the platform. This invitation should 
be given in a neat note some days before the meeting, 
and on the appointed evening some member of the com- 
mittee should meet these citizens as they arrive, and con- 
duct them to the platform. 

This may be deemed non-essential, but it aids in the 
accomplishment of three purposes : 

1st. It exerts an influence upon those invited, com- 
mitting them to the temperance side, and leading them 
to identify themselves with us in the work. 

2d. It encourages the speaker. He feels that much 
is expected. He sees that minute details have received 
attention; that the interest of the community is excited. 
It awakens all his pride; it quickens his perceptions; it 
arouses all his energies ; it puts him at his best. 

3d. It emboldens the timid. Wavering, vacillating 



178 



THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 



men, seeking to place themselves in the popular current, 
will be inclined to follow in the lead of these distin- 
guished citizens. 

All these influences should be brought to bear, to 
make the meetings successful, and impress society with 
the dignity and importance of the Templar work. 



VIII. — CLAIMS OF THE ORDER PRESENTED. 

At the close of the lecture either the speaker or some 
member of the lodge should present in brief, well-chosen 
words, the claims of Good Templary to public confi- 
dence ; should state purposes of the Order, and invite to 
membership and co-operation all interested in the cause 
it champions. Time of meeting, manner of applying for 
membership, initiation fee, and requirements from candi- 
date should also be stated. 

Do not permit the invitation and explanations to oc- 
cupy more than five minutes, and let clear, concise lan- 
guage, shorn of useless verbiage, be used. 

Always close a meeting before the zest of its enjoyment 
has passed away. 

It is better that the audience should disperse, saying 
to each other, " It was too short," Ct I could have listened 
two hours longer," "It was so interesting, I never 
thought of its being time to close," — than to have them 
so overwhelmed with good thoughts that they become 
physically wearied. 

Make all public meetings held under the auspices of 
the lodge occasions of such enjoyment that they will be 
remembered with pleasure. This will go far toward 
making the next similar gathering a success. 



OUTSIDE WORK. 179 

IX. PERSONAL ATTENTION TO THE SPEAKER. 

It should be ascertained whether the speaker prefers 
to board at a hotel or be entertained at a private house. 
Circumstances of different localities greatly diifer. In 
one town the hotels may be dingy and uncomfortable, 
while some citizen, who would cheerfully offer the hos- 
pitalities of his home, would be far better able to pro- 
vide for the visitor's wants. In another town the re- 
verse may be true. 

In the latter case it would be discourteous and mean 
to quarter the speaker in a private family. In the former 
case it might be the highest respect that could be paid 
him. In either case, his feelings should be consulted. 
Complete arrangements for boarding should be made in 
advance. If the weather is cold, a room with fire should 
be secured. 

The committee should be in attendance at the train, 
boat, or other conveyance by which the speaker is ex- 
pected to arrive, to escort him to his lodgings, and, in 
case he is quartered with a private family, to introduce 
him to his host and hostess. If the distance is great, 
conveyance should be provided. 

After installing him in his rooms, the committee should 
ascertain if they can be of further immediate service, 
and assure him of their readiness to give him any re- 
quired attention. If nothing further is required they 
can leave their names and addresses and retire. To re- 
main longer would be a breach of good manners. Their 
guest will require time to himself. Further attention at 
the time would be obtrusive. 

A public man, traveling from state to state, and city 
to city, is often best "entertained" by being " let alone/' 



180 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

a part of the time at least. Never load a man with at- 
tention till it becomes an oppressive burden to him. 

When the hour for meeting arrives some member of 
the committee must call for the speaker and conduct him 
to the hall. Don't call too early. Wait till there re- 
mains just sufficient time to reach the appointed place at 
the advertised hour. Do not engage him in conversa- 
tion unless he make the first advances. It may distract 
his thoughts and attention from his subject. Let him 
take the initiative in conversation, or keep silent, as he 
may desire. Arrived at the hall, introduce him to the 
chairman and leave him in his care. 

At the close, the committee will escort the speaker to 
his rooms, and ask him at what hour to call upon him 
the following day. Let them strive to make his stay 
pleasant, without intruding upon him at unreasonable 
times or forcing their attentions upon him. 

Last, but not least, let them pay him, promptly and 
fully, the amount agreed upon for his work. 

In some localities a portion of these directions may not 
be readily observed. They are given as an outline of 
what should be done, as nearly as possible. 

Lodges outside of towns and cities may not be able to 
make such complete arrangements. They should attend 
to all the details given, in such manner as they best can. 
If they cannot conduct their affairs on a metropolitan 
plan, it does not excuse neglect of the essential duties 
required to be performed. 

OPEN LODGE MEETINGS. 

Occasionally the public may be invited to an open 
meeting of the lodge, or a public installation of officers. 
These meetings must be arranged for by the lodge on such 



OUTSIDE WORK. 181 

plan as they may deem expedient. They should not be 
held too frequently. One public installation each year 
is sufficient. Other open lodge meetings might be held 
once in three or six months, not oftener. 

It is far better to hold the regular lodge meetings at 
the usual time, in due form and uninterrupted, and 
select other evenings for public meetings. 

A programme should be arranged for such meetings, 
adapted to the community in which they are held. Tem- 
perance speeches and selections should always have a 
place in the programme, but need not exclude every- 
thing else. In some localities there are very few literary 
exercises given in public; in others many. It will be 
the endeavor of committees to provide something differ- 
ent from the class of public entertainments most frequent, 
and make these open meetings as attractive as possible. 

The object of these public lodge meetings or entertain- 
ments is to attract the attention of society to the Good 
Templar order as an active, energetic body of temper- 
ance workers, and extend its influence and usefulness. 
Care must be taken that the exercises in public do not 
interfere with or absorb the regular u Good of the Or- 
der" work of the lodge. If this were permitted some 
members would lose interest in the regular sessions and 
devote themselves wholly to the open meetings. In this 
case the lodge would lose rather than gain. 

In arranging for this class of meetings, a general in- 
vitation is sometimes given to all who desire to be pres- 
ent. In other cases a written invitation is sent to those 
not members, who are known to be interested in and 
friendly toward the lodge. The latter plan is sure to 
secure a very pleasant gathering, if no partiality is man- 
ifested in sending the invitations. Many who would not 



182 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

attend on a general invitation would feel more interest 
if their presence was specially requested. 

LODGE SOCIABLES. 

The social feature of Good Templary has ever been 
prominent. It has been found to be one of its greatest 
elements of strength. 

Society and conviviality are among the most danger- 
ous influences that decoy young men into the dram- 
shops. 

Some critics have objected to the social part of Good 
Templary. 

» This objection is the result of superficial observation. 
Examination of the nature and wants of the human 
mind, as well as the physical system, reveal two classes 
of necessities to a complete life — the animal and the 
mental. The animal wants — food, fire, clothing — make 
themselves known more plainly, and being readily rec- 
ognized, are more regularly supplied. The mental re- 
quirements — less easily distinguished and understood — 
are scarcely less imperative. The mind demands com- 
panionship as naturally as the body demands food, be- 
cause of the operation of laws governing equally the 
physical and the spiritual being. 

These conditions are inborn, pre-existent. 

They are not created FOR the individual, nor by the 
individual. They are NOT the result of his surroundings; 
they do not and can not arise out of his relations to society 
or his associations with men. They are a part of himself 
—inseparably, indissolubly linked with his being. 

The dramshop no more creates this social demand than 
the food on the table creates hunger, or the oxygen of 
the air creates the organs of respiration. 



outside work. 183 

The dramshop merely ministers to an existing 

WANT. 

No matter how had the ministry of the dramshop, it 
does furnish temporary satisfaction of an actual demand. 

It is useless to theorize that this satisfaction will end 
in bitterness and remorse ; that it is unreal , ephemeral, 
vain; that it is a mental " dead-sea fruit " that " turns to 
ashes on the lips/' 

The best theory does not disprove that the demand ex- 
ists ; that the drinking-place meets it, and attempts to 
satisfy it. 

W iser than we have been, the drink-vender has always 
endeavored to surround his business with the glamour of 
good-fellowship and social enjoyment. He has sought 
to extend the false notion that the foaming beer-mug, 
the sparkling wine-glass, contain the only real chrism 
with which to baptize brotherhood and anoint friend- 
ship. He has striven to impress upon the young men 
that cheerful companionship can only be maintained over 
the social glass and in places where liquor is sold. He 
has spread the belief that only straight-laced bigotry and 
comfortless asceticism refrain from intoxicating drinks. 
He has taught the doctrine that total abstinence societies 
seek to curtail the enjoyments and pleasures of life ; that 
gayety and laughter are inconsistent with sobriety, and 
that, to renounce the drink practice, is to renounce society. 

To counteract the evil tendencies of this teaching is 
our work. Simple denials will not suffice. We must 
prove it false. We must recognize the social and men- 
tal wants of the nature with which we have to deal, and 
supply them with healthful mental nourishment in the 
place of the impure and vile. That previous associations 
have been bad is no proof that society is not a legitimate 



184 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

demand of man's nature. If a man has been eating poi- 
sonous food until it has undermined his strength and 
wasted his energies, he would not be cured by taking 
away all food, but by substituting wholesome diet in the 
place of the poison, nature would slowly rebuild and re- 
place the wasted tissues, and restore the normal condi- 
tions. Adopt the same treatment for the mental as for 
the physical being. We find evil associations have poi- 
soned the brain and heart. To remove all associations 
would be mental starvation. To supply new, pure, ele- 
vating society will restore the mental and moral tone. 

Recognizing that God made man a social being, Good 
Templary ministers to his social nature. It strives to 
make the associations of the Order so pleasant, so desir- 
able, so elevating, that, after they have once been en- 
joyed, the society of the dram shop will never again 
have charms even for the old-time drinker. 

To this end many lodges hold sociables on other than 
lodge nights, sometimes in the lodge room and sometimes 
at the home of some member. Free from the restraints 
of the lodge session, various exercises, amusements, and 
innocent sports are engaged in, and the evening passes 
in unalloyed enjoyment. 

The invitations to these sociables should usually be 
confined to lodge members, some lodges making the rule 
that none but regular attendants at the lodge shall be 
invited. 

The reason for this is obvious. If the general public 
are to enjoy all the privileges of Good Templar sociables 
and public meetings, some may be led to feel that mem- 
bership is no special gain, and remain outside, or if 
members, drop out and avoid their just share of the re- 
sponsibilities of membership. This may not be the case 



OUTSIDE WORK. 185 

in all places. Each lodge must determine these matters 
and fix its plans to subserve its own best interests. 

The " sociables" cannot be too frequent, even if held 
every week. The drunkard-maker supplies a social re- 
sort for every day in the week. The frequenters of 
dram shops undoubtedly are great wasters of time. La- 
bor or study would doubtless be far more profitable than 
amusements for any evening, but we must deal with hu- 
man nature as we find it, without expecting immediately 
to realize all our ideals. By successive steps, by better 
moral teachings, by elevating associations, by fraternal 
help, by encouragement to the weak, by kindness and 
sympathy, by patient watching and waiting, shall we be 
enabled to "rescue the fallen and save others from fall- 
ing." 

The programme of the social is more varied than that 
of a lodge session. When convenient, refreshments and 
fruits are provided ; the cookery need not be elaborate 
nor the menu extensive, relaxation and enjoyment being 
the objects rather than feasting. The first hour may be 
given to conversation and games, after which refresh- 
ments, a literary programme of forty or fifty minutes, 
and amusements till the hour for dispersing. Let the 
programme include recitations and songs — something 
grave, something funny, to suit all tastes and please all 
present. 

LODGE PRAYER MEETINGS. 

In addition to the social meetings there should be con- 
ducted a regular lodge prayer meeting. The Christian 
members of the lodge should form a prayer company and 
hold these meetings, inviting any or all of the other 
members to be present. 



186 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Men who have reformed and abandoned drink are 
still subject to temptations. They may feel almost pow- 
erless when thus assailed. No one can tell how much 
they may be encouraged and strengthened by leading 
them to feel that a Power, higher than human, watches 
over and helps all who lean trustingly on his omnipo- 
tent arm. 

Let the invitations be sent out, stating time and place 
of meeting. It may be well to hold a portion of the 
prayer meetings at the houses of members and a part at 
the lodge room. 

Give the invitation to all members interested, in open 
lodge. Write notes to those who are, or should be spe- 
cially interested. 

Something like the following would be a good form: 

Glendale, Fla., March 1st, 1882. 
Ezra Jones: 

Dear Bro. — You are specially invited to be present at the meet- 
ing of the "prayer circle" of Aldine Lodge No. 100, on Wednesday 
evening, at the residence of Bro. James Porter. 

Subject of prayer — The pending municipal election. 
Bro. Rivers will lead the meeting. 

Wm. Landreth, Leader. 

The maintenance of these prayer circles will result in 
incalculable benefit. Those who come under their influ- 
ence will have their courage renewed. Those who do 
not attend will respect and honor those who carry them 
on. 

Members and pastors of Christian churches who are 
not Good Templars should be occasionally invited, some 
from different churches at every meeting. They will 
thus learn more of the broad principles of our Order, and 
may be led to unite with the lodge. 

These meetings should be opened with prayer by the 



OUTSIDE WORK. 187^ 

leader. Appropriate temperance hymns should be sung. 
Members should be called out one by one to repeat 
some passage of scripture which seems to him to have 
bearing upon the subject of the evening, and to make 
remarks concerning the passage. This exercise will be 
followed with singing and prayer, in which those who 
feel it a duty will participate, after which the meeting 
will be closed by the leader in the manner he deems fit. 

By holding these meetings we shall demonstrate that 
our Order is in entire harmony with the spirit and ob- 
servances of the Christian churches. It will refute every 
charge of irreligion our enemies have brought against 
us, and will go far toward securing the active co-opera- 
tion of the religious world in our Order and our work. 

Gospel truth and Christian principle are the founda- 
tion and strength of the Good Templar lodge. This fact 
must be ever kept in view. We recognize the purity and 
sinlessness of the Nazarene as the only model for a per- 
fect life. Humbly following in his footsteps, we bear 
aloft our banners, inscribed with his name, in the front 
of every battle for right and humanity, until he shall 
lead our hosts to victory. 

LODGES INSTITUTING NEW LODGES NEAR. 

When a lodge is in working order they should look 
carefully over the unoccupied territory in their vicinity 
to see if other lodges could not be organized. A locality 
apparently favorable having been determined upon, a 
few of the best workers can make calls upon leading and 
influential citizens of the neighborhood and explain the 
Order, citing the work of their own lodge, and urging 
the claims of our organization upon their attention. 
By thus awakening an interest they may readily secure 



188 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

a sufficient number of names of the best class of people 
to make a lodge successful. 

These names secured, the best posted member who has 
been engaged in obtaining them may be recommended to 
the G. W. C. T. for a special commission to organize 
them into a lodge. 

Full advice and directions for this part of the work 
will be found in the chapter on " organizing." 

The lodge that takes upon itself the work of building 
the Order in the surrounding territory will take the 
surest means of strengthening itself. Its members will 
feel a new and fresher interest, and will be only too glad 
to go out into the new field, and aid to the full extent 
of their powers. 

LODGE VISITATIONS. 

Much encouragement may be given to lodges by a 
system of fraternal visitation. 

Let a lodge give notice a few weeks ahead that on a 
certain date they will visit a sister lodge in a body. Ar- 
range conveyance as circumstances may require, and let 
all the members, or as many as possible, pay the visit. 

In Australia, a scheme, of visitation covering many 
months and reaching all the lodges in a jurisdiction is 
published in advance in the Grand Lodge organ, and ex- 
tensive preparations are made both by the visitors and 
the visited. 

If a literary programme is presented when such visits 
are made, the exercises should be divided between the 
lodges. 

New thoughts and suggestions will be inspired by the 
wider association with neighboring lodges, and the com- 
fort of having friends near will be felt by each member. 



OUTSIDE WORK. 189 

CELEBRATIONS AND FETES. 

At the celebration of national holidays and at special 
fetes, where various societies are invited, the Good Tem- 
plars should always accept the invitation, and be present 
in full force to take part. Every lodge should provide 
a banner/ on which the name and number of the lodge, 
and the letters " I. O. of G. T." has been printed or 
embroidered. This should be carried at the head of the 
Good Templar column if marching, and in the first car- 
riage if riding, to the place of celebration. Other ban- 
ners with appropriate mottoes may be provided if the 
lodge can afford it. Let them be as elegant as possible. 
Virtue, truth, temperance, have the best title to the 
beautiful things of earth. 

FUNERALS. 

On the death of a member the lodge should attend the 
funeral. Regalia should be worn unless there is special 
objection. If desired, the funeral ceremony found in the 
Ritual should be used. 

Upon hearing of the death, a special meeting of the 
lodge should be called. Every member should be no- 
tified, and should attend the special meeting and the 
funeral without fail. Complete arrangements should be 
made so that there shall be no awkwardness, mistakes, 
or misunderstanding. Whether marching or driving, 
the lodge members should be together. 

This last tribute of respect to the memory of a deceased 
brother or sister is fitting, and should not be neglected. 

CIRCULATION OF TEMPERANCE PAPERS. 

Every temperance man should be a subscriber for 



190 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

some temperance periodical. Lodge members can do the 
cause no better service than to get a club for some good 
paper devoted to. our cause. Every member should be 
a subscriber for the official organ adopted by his own 
Grand Lodge. This will keep him informed on the 
work in his own jurisdiction. He should also subscribe 
for some general temperance newspaper, which contains 
full information concerning the work throughout the 
world. 

The lodge should appoint a committee of three or five 
active members to canvass the whole community and ob- 
tain subscribers for some good temperance paper. The 
great problem of reform should be pressed upon society. 
If any are found who are too poor to pay for a paper, 
let this committee solicit the amount needed to supply 
them from those who are able to help, and thus put tem- 
perance truth within the reach of all. Let the committee 
adopt this method, and find some means to supply every 
family with this kind of reading. The impress of such 
literature will make itself felt, and the whole people will 
grow into higher ideals of temperance. 

The same, or a similar committee should extend the 
sale and circulation of temperance books and tracts pub- 
lished by the R. W. G. L., as mentioned in the chapter 
on R. W. G. L. 

If a lodge does this kind of work it will win the re- 
spect and confidence of the people, and gain strength 
continually. 

LODGE LIBRARIES. 

Every lodge should seek to accumulate books and 
form a loan library. The books may be loaned to the 
general public under certain limitations. 



OUTSIDE WORK. 191 

The library need not be large at first, and may be in- 
creased in size as rapidly as means will allow. 

The leading temperance publications of the world 
should be found in it. 

Several methods of raising money for this purpose may 
be adopted. 

A subscription like the following may be circulated 
among members and outsiders. 

LIBRARY SUBSCRIPTION. 

We, the undersigned, hereby promise to pay on the first day of 
June, 1882, the sum set opposite our respective names, and a further 
sum each week thereafter as appearing in the appropriate column, 
to be used for the purchase and maintenance of a library for Aldine 
Lodge No. 100, 1. O. of G. T., the books to be loaned to the public 
under the same rules as to lodge members : 



NAME. 


TO BE PAID 

1, 1882 


PAYABLE WEEKLY 
THEREAFTER. 


John Jones 


$ 5 00 

5 00 

10 00 

50 


.50 


Hiram Burke 


.25 


Miss Jane Raymond 




Luella Baldwin 


.50 


Arthur Raymond 


.25 



These subscriptions should be collected promptly, and 
new books purchased every month. 

Preference should always be given to the temperance 
publishing houses in purchasing. 

A set of simple rules and regulations must be adopted. 
They must be printed and pasted in each book before it 
leaves the library. A number must also be attached. 
The following rules will cover all necessary points in 
most localities: 

RULES AND REGULATIONS OF ALDINE LODGE LIBRARY. 

1. This book is the property of Aldine Lodge No. 100, I. O. of 
G. T. , located in Glendale, Fla. 

2. Books can only be borrowed by application to the Librarian. 

13 



192 



THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 



3. Borrowers must receipt the Librarian for all books taken. 

4. Books shall not be retained by borrowers longer than one 
week. Ten cents for each week or fraction of a week will be 
charged for retention over time. 

5. Strangers and unreliable persons may receive books only by 
making a cash deposit with the librarian equal to the price of the 
book or cost of replacing it, which will be repaid, on the return of 
the book in as good order as taken, subject to Rule 4. 

6. Any damage to the book shall be paid by the borrower hav- 
ing it in charge at the time injury occurred. 

7. Persons violating these rules will not be permitted to borrow 
books for the period of a year. 

A substantial bookcase with good lock should be pro- 
vided, and a librarian of careful and accurate habits 
must be selected. 

The selection of books and the general interests of the 
library should be left in the hands of a library board, 
consisting of two members of the lodge, and one promi- 
nent contributor to the fund outside the lodge. 

The form for receipting to librarian may be as fol- 
lows : 



NAME OF BOOK. 


I 

LIBRARY DATR SIGNATURE 
NUMBER.! LOANED. OF RECEIVER. 


DATE 

, ret'n'd. 


CONDI- 
TION. 


Alcohol and State 

Liquor Problem 

The Old Brewery 


i 1 

210 Feb 2, 'S2 John Jones ... 

80 " " "A. Ward 

75j " " " IDora Wells... 

1 1 


Feb. 9, '82 

<< y ( " 

" 5, " 


Good 
Torn 



The librarian should always make the entries as above, 
and require the receipts for his own protection as well 
as for the protection of the library. 

In making a change in the office of librarian, a com- 
plete inventory of all books should be made, with notes 
of those loaned, and to whom, and the new librarian 
should be required to receipt for them, and inventory 
and receipt filed away by the secretary of the library 
board. 



OUTSIDE WOKK. 193 

If a lodge will adopt these plans, and gather a library, 
and use it properly, it will prove an element of strength. 

GENERAL TEMPERANCE MEETINGS. 

The lodge should ever be ready to give assistance to 
any churches or temperance societies who may desire 
their co-operation in holding a series of temperance 
meetings. 

The broadest principles of temperance and Christian 
fellowship must permeate our Order. The secrecy of 
Good Templary is but a household arrangement, to ce- 
ment and unite the affections of the brothers and sisters, 
so that they may go " shoulder to shoulder " into every 
combat against wrong and error. 

Every public contest against the liquor crime must 
call out all our forces. Every Good Templar should be 
found ready to help in every line of work, and with 
every class of workers. 

KEEP THE LODGE BEFORE THE PEOPLE. 

The lodge should keep a standing notice in the local 
press, giving full particulars of time and place of meet- 
ing, and inviting members from other lodges to visit the 
sessions. 

Large printed cards, 16 inches by 22 or larger, should 
be neatly framed and hung in depots, hotel offices, and 
other public places. 

Something like the following would attract attention: 

G-OOD TEMPLABS. 



Aldine Lodge, No. 100. 

Meets every Monday evening in their Hall, No. 576 Bay St., at 7:30 p.m. 
Members of the Order cordially invited. 
All temperance workers are earnestly requested to unite with the Lodge. 
"We give you a cordial welcome." 



194 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

A circular, setting forth the aims of Good Templary, 
its manner of work and its requirements, can be issued 
and used effectively in spreading a knowledge of the 
Order. 






CHAPTER XII. 



REFORM WORK. 



" We aim to lift up those who are sunk low in the scale 
of human degradation, and restore them to family, friends, 
and society" 

No more delicate and difficult problem presents itself to 
the Good Templar than this of reforming and saving 
the drinker. The best brain and genius of the Order 
have given the question serious and constant considera- 
tion. The truest and best workers have labored long 
and zealously to reform the inebriate. 

His reformation is part of our great work. It is not 
our only mission, perhaps not even our noblest, yet it is 
work that demands our attention, and if successful 
makes an impression upon society. 

One man saved from becoming an inebriate is certainly 
worth as much to the world as one drunkard redeemed 
from the drink-habit. But the influences that prevented 
the fall of the one are not so palpable, so plain, so easily 
understood as the operation of those influences that sud- 
denly lifted the other from a debased condition into a 
better and truer life. 

Our members themselves, although they view these 
questions from a somewhat different standpoint of obser- 
vation from the rest of society, are apt to fall into the 
habit of thinking that unless the lodge can point to 

[195] 



196 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

some drunkard saved, it has scarcely an excuse for ex- 
istence. 

While there exists this demand for plain, marked, and 
unmistakable results, this " seeking after a sign," we 
must not relax our energies in this direction, even though 
we increase our zeal in other branches of the work. 

The first step toward securing an influence over the 
drinker is to convince him of our earnest sympathy and 
readiness to help him in his efforts to free himself from 
old habits and associations. 

His habits of life, the teachings of the society in which 
he has mingled, his methods of thought, have all led him 
into the belief that the temperance organization is an 
enemy's battery, whose guns are trained directly on him. 
He avoids temperance workers. He hears temperance 
men stigmatized. The most opprobrious epithets in the 
drunkard-maker's vocabulary are heaped upon them 
while he listens. In his diseased imagination they as- 
sume the most terrible shapes. They seem to be judge 
and jury coolly weighing the testimony of his accusing 
conscience; they seem a band of merciless inquisitors 
prying into the hidden arcana of his soul ; they seem a 
host of avenging spirits, each a pitiless Nemesis. These 
distorted fancies seize and hold him. Approach him — 
he shrinks away. Speak compassionately — he steels his 
heart against sympathy. Hold before him a picture of 
hope, and home, and happiness — he will not look. Warn 
of impending dangers — he laughs. Pleading and prayer, 
reasoning and persuasion he does not heed, because he 
cannot realize that the temperance man is this truest 
friend. 

Unless these illusions can be dispelled, we can gain no 
real or lasting influence over the drinker. Nor can we 



REFORM WORK. 197 

expect to overcome suddenly the prejudices of half a 
lifetime. It is a laborious task. To accomplish it, re- 
quires patient waiting and skillful effort. 

The man who would save his fallen brother must 
consent to be " reviled, and revile not -again;" must ex- 
pect to be misjudged and slandered ; must return kind- 
ness for curses, good words for maledictions. 

A life is at stake; a destiny hangs trembling in the 
balance, an immortal soul quivers on the brink of doom. 
To save that soul we must master pride, banish fear, 
suppress resentment, forget self. 

"Let him know that he which converteth a sinner from 
the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and 
shall cover a multitude of sins ." James v. 20. 

The Good Templar theory of drunkenness lias ever 
been : 

1st. That the physical condition of inebriety is the 
result of use of intoxicating liquors until their irritant 
poison has caused unhealthy and unnatural action of the 
physical system. 

2d. That the degenerate moral condition is the re- 
sult of physical depression and disease, and the con- 
tamination of evil associations. 

Having thus diagnosed the disease, Good Templary 
proceeds to prescribe the remedies. 

I. The physical disease being the first inception of 
all the disorder, the physical wants must first receive at- 
tention. If the patient ( for such he is ) be without 
means of support, he should be supplied with food for 
himself and family. This may be a delicate task, but 
the ready ingenuity of genuine sympathy will suggest a 
means of supplying his wants quietly and unobtrusively. 

Having supplied the temporary needs, it becomes 



198 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

necessary to direct the physical energies and activities 
into proper channels. If the patient is out of employ- 
ment, it should be the first endeavor to assist him in se- 
curing such employment as may be adapted to his ca- 
pacity or strength. 

It is not always possible to obtain work in the par- 
ticular branch of business or industry desired, but the 
Good Templar who is seeking a place for a reformed 
man will always select, if possible, such pursuits and 
associations as will be least likely to lead his thoughts 
back to his old haunts and habits. 

This outward ministry to physical needs is an imper- 
ative necessity in preparing for a permanent reform in 
the man. 

To the starving man, the hand that brings him food; 
to the houseless, the kindness that gives him shelter; 
to the wanderer, the finger that points him toward a 
haven and a home, all seem endowed with the per- 
fection of Christian character. 

A sack of flour, a bag of meal, a loaf of bread often 
preaches a better sermon than the most learned exegesis 
of the ripest scholarship. 

A hungry man cannot feel gratitude. A friendless 
man cannot feel the influences of fraternal ties. 

So intimately interwoven is the moral and the spirit- 
ual nature with the physical, that ministry to the mate- 
rial wants is often the only key to the inner sanctuary of 
the heart. 

II. The confidence of the drinker once gained by 
these means, the second step is easy. The mental and 
intellectual wants next receive attention. Companion- 
ship is almost as imperatively demanded by the mental 
nature as food and shelter are demanded by the physical. 



REFORM WORK. 199 

The old associations of the drinker must be aban- 
doned when he seeks to reform. It will be utterly im- 
possible for him to mingle freely with old comrades, fre- 
quenting the scenes of past dissipation, and maintain 
inviolate his pledge of abstinence. The self-confident 
man who boasts of his ability to withstand temptation — 
who invites a trial of his powers of resistance — is in 
constant peril, and sooner or later he will fall a victim 
to his old appetites, in spite of his protestations of 
strength. 

The Good Templar lodge will supply in part the 
demand for new and better associations. But it must 
be remembered that his late companions were to be 
found assembled far oftener than on one evening of each 
week. The lodge meetings will not wholly fill the social 
requirements of the reformed man. They must be sup- 
plemented by other and more frequent means of social 
intercourse. The members must consider how utterly 
lonely this changed life may leave the newly obligated 
member, just emerging from the dizzy excitements of 
the drinking places. 

Some members may be able to invite him to their 
homes for an occasional evening. Others may be able to 
accompany him to some public entertainment or amuse- 
ment where a pure and elevating atmosphere pervades 
the place. Any attention that shows him that his in- 
terests are cared for; that in renouncing old companion- 
ships he will gain new and better friends; that he will 
not be forgotten and left to fight his hard battles alone — 
any kindness that reveals true sympathy with his mis- 
fortunes, will nerve him to make brave endeavors to be 
rid of the old life, and to become firmly established in 
the new. 



200 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

If possible, his interest should be aroused and di- 
rected toward intellectual pursuits for his idle hours. 
Proper reading and study not only develop the mental 
faculties, but repress the coarser and baser impulses. 

The natural inclinations of the mind should be studied. 
Perhaps the patient first fell into evil habits because 
something interfered with the mental tendencies he had 
sought to follow. If this be true, nothing will help 
him more than to assist him in surmounting such ob- 
stacles. As soon as the newly rescued drinker is ready 
to give his confidences, the Templar will learn something 
of the causes which led to such habits. This history 
will help to teach the worker how to treat the patient — 
what to seek for him — what to avoid. 

It must be borne in mind that all men are not pos- 
sessed of the same intellectual natures. Measure each 
and suit the mental training to the particular mind on 
which it is being brought to bear. 

III. With physical conditions improved, and mental 
strength restored, a good vantage ground is gained. 

From this vantage ground the true Templar will ven- 
ture on the last step towards the complete and perma- 
nent reformation of the late inebriate. 

Human help and human sympathy have wrought 
much; they cannot do more of themselves. Kindness 
has broken the soil; fraternal friendship has made it 
ready for the sower. The Christian Templar must next 
plant the seeds of divine truth in this waiting heart, 
that in "the hour of temptation it may look to that Word 
whieh was in the beginning, is now, and shall be ever- 
more, for strength, and at the feet of the Son of God 
learn the lesson of faith, hope, and charity." 

This is the culmination of the Templar's labors to 



REFORM WORK. 201 

save. From the vale of shadows that lower over the 
drunkard -s life the Order leads the emancipated soul 
out into the full glory of the sunlight of God's eternal 
truth, and plants the now unfettered feet upon the solid 
rock of Christian faith. Thenceforth he is safe. In 
storm or sun, clinging to God's promises, he will stand 
firm and unshaken. 

If all could be led at once into this ark of safety 
there would be little more to add in regard to the work 
of " saving the fallen." 

Unfortunately, the victim of appetite too often finds 
the chain of his old thraldom far harder to break than 
he ever dreamed. The path from " darkness into light" 
is often long and difficult. Some, only half-convinced, 
take their first steps hesitatingly and doubtfully. Others, 
too self-confident, start haughtily and boldly forward. 
Of either class, some will fall by the way. The Tem- 
plar learns to look upon all " like as a father pitieth his 
children." 

BROKEN PLEDGES. 

To those not engaged in active temperance work, it 
sometimes appears that we tolerate among us members 
who are not striving to keep the pledge of total absti- 
nence. We must expect to be misapprehended by those 
who do not, or will not, understand the broad charity 
inculcated by our Order. We may even be imposed upon 
by those who have no honesty of purpose in assuming 
our obligation. 

But Good Templary, confident of the purity of its 
own principles, risks this misconception and imposition, 
rather than lose the opportunity for saving one who has 
come under the power of the drink-curse. 



202 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

The Order is ever ready to receive the returning prod- 
igal. Though he may often break his promise of absti- 
nence, we accept his penitence in good faith and strive 
to draw around him more closely the bonds of fraternity 
and friendship, that he may not again be led into tempta- 
tion. The Savior said: 

"If thy brother trespass against thee, rebuke him; if 
he repent, forgive him. And if he trespass against thee 
seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again 
to thee, saying, I repent, thou shalt forgive him." 
Luke xvii. 3, 4. 

If any sneer at our forbearance toward the erring or 
unworthy, we commend to him this lesson of the Per-» 
feet Teacher. 

Whenever it is believed that a brother has violated 
his obligation, some member whose age and discretion 
fit him for the task should visit him in a spirit of kind- 
ness, and urge him to make voluntary confession before 
the lodge, and to promise amendment and a more con- 
scientious keeping of his obligation in the future. 

It would be well if every lodge would provide for a 
standing committee whose duty it should be to take 
charge of such cases, and endeavor to influence the of- 
fending member to make honorable confession. 

If such committee were created, it should consist of 
members who have the entire confidence of the class 
among whom they will be most likely to be called upon 
to labor. There are true and trusted members in every 
lodge whose unswerving and, life-long fidelity to princi- 
ple inspires respect even among the bitterest foes of the 
cause and Order. A committee composed of one or three 
such members could accomplish more by a few minutes 
of friendly converse with the brother supposed to have 



REFORM WORK. 203 

broken his obligation, than the whole lodge could ac- 
complish by the harsh method of a charge and trial. 

Milder measures are always best. Avoid trials as long 
as possible. Appeal to the innate sense of honor. Deal 
with the man who has broken his vow, as with a brother. 
Try the power of love. Do not resort to harsher meas- 
ures till all gentler means fail. 

RE-INSTATEMENT. 

When a member has broken his obligation we ask 
him to again promise at our altars a more faithful ob- 
servance of it in future. 

Whether by his own voluntary confession or through 
charges and trial, it becomes known to the lodge that a 
member has broken his pledge, the lodge can only 
restore him by vote, which must be by ballot in the 
regular manner, and if the ballot is favorable to a re- 
instatement " he must again promise to keep inviolate 
the life-long obligation already taken, which promise 
is made in the manner prescribed in the ritual. He 
must appear and make this promise within a certain 
definite time, as prescribed in the constitution, or he 
may be declared expelled. 

Every opportunity, consistent with necessary disci- 
pline, is given the erring member to return to the lodge. 

Lodges sometimes fine members for violation, but this 
is hardly advisable in all cases, and no law should be 
partial in its operation, but should apply to all alike. 

A reprimand, suited to the occasion and the offense, 
should always be administered. In some cases it may 
be made a mild reproof or caution. In others, severer 
censure may be necessary. 

It must be remembered that the design and aim of 



204 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

reprimand or other penalty, is to secure reform, not 
punishment. A few supposed cases are given with a 
suitable reprimand for each. 

If a former drinker, who has been for a considerable 
time a faithful member of the lodge, should confess to 
having violated the pledge in an unguarded moment, 
and express a desire to be permitted to again resume his 
standing in the Order, the lodge should grant his request 
and the reprimand will partake of the nature of admoni- 
tion. Something like the following may suit the circum- 
stance of the case. The W. C. T., or other officer whom 
he may designate, should administer the reproof before 
the applicant renews his promise to keep his obligation. 

My friend, it is with feelings of mingled pain and rejoicing that 
we again meet you at our altar ; we are pained because of your 
broken vow; we rejoice at the manliness of your confession and at 
your determination to again endeavor to keep your pledge of absti- 
nence. Let this hour be remembered. It is a solemn thing to take 
a pledge in the sight of God and the listening angels ; — to take a 
pledge in the presence of your brothers and sisters; to make a com- 
pact with society that henceforth your life shall be unmarred by 
what was once its deepest stain. Eemember that in the keeping 
of this vow, you are making character. Old companions may laugh 
with you over a broken pledge, but even they would respect 30U 
far more for keeping it inviolate. No matter what may be a man's 
belief, or practice, or associations, he cannot but esteem fidelity and 
integrity of purpose. You cannot win honor by acts that are dis- 
honorable ; you cannot win the confidence of society by the betrayal 
of trust 

We receive your confession in good faith. We believe you will 
endeavor to be more faithful in future. Come back into full fellow- 
ship with us in the same spirit in which we receive you, — as a 
brother of our temperance family, home again. Let me warn you 
against the temptations that will assail you. Keep far from them. 
Do not step within their reach if you can avoid it. Many will 
seek your overthrow, not because they bear you malice, but because 
your fidelity is a perpetual reproof to their dissolute habits. Their 



REFORM WORK. 205 

consciences, long slumbering, are awakened by your new habits of 
sobriety and temperance, and rebuke the folly and sin they are 
committing. 

Will you not, therefore, be more cautious in the future. It is not 
for yourself alone that you are to act. Every man exerts an unseen 
influence over others. Stand with unwavering firmness, true to 
your vows of total abstinence, and your influence will be for good, 
and will surround your life with blessings. 

In case a member pleads " not guilty/' and is tried 
and found to be guilty, a severer reprimand may be given. 

My friend, you have been guilty of a double offense. You first 
violated your pledge of abstinence; you next denied the truth. It 
is not surprising that you should feel ashamed of having been guilty 
of the first act. It is surprising that you should have committed a 
second grave offense to cover the first. 

A manly confession more than half atones for a fault. We were 
grieved that you should not keep your solemn pledge; we are still 
more grieved that you would not come to us voluntarily and ask 
the lodge to pardon the fault and transgression. 

May this be a lesson you will profit by. How utterly unworthy 
of men is this drink-habit, making them first disreputable, then dis- 
honest. 

Do not again commit an offense thoughtlessly and then deliber- 
ately attempt its concealment. Successful deception is the first 
step downward. It will fasten upon you the habit of deceit. It will 
end in self-contempt and self-loathing. 

Hereafter, look upon these brothers and sisters as friends who 
will help you. Be worthy of their help and sympathy. 

Perhaps the most aggravated violation of the obligation 
consists in inducing other members to drink. Younger 
members especially, are susceptible to the influence of 
their fellows. It is a particularly heinous offense for an 
older member to give liquor to another. The severest 
reprimand would be deserved for such an offense, but the 
reform of the offender being the object in view, it should 
be so given as to present clearly to his mind the wrong 
he has done in its full enormity, that he may avoid its 



206 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

repetition in future because convinced of the extent of 
the harm it would do. The following reprimand is an 
example that may cover this case: 

My friend, it is especially painful to us to be compelled to be- 
lieve that any member could so far forget the solemn vows he had 
taken at our altar as to become an instrument of temptation to a 
brother of this Order. God has pronounced upon this act the sever- 
est penalty of offended law; 

" WOE UNTO HIM THAT GIVETH HIS NEIGHBOR DRINK." Hab. ii.15. 

If a member willfully breaks his pledge by drinking, he should 
feel the deepest shame. But if only himself be involved, the guilt 
rests not so heavy as when another is led into evil by his influence. 

The act into which another member has been betrayed by your 
influence, is not the full measure of the wrong. He may make a 
new promise to keep his obligation, and determine never again to 
listen to the voice of the tempter. He may even put on such a triple 
armor of resolute strength as to save him from another fall. But 
who shall efface from his mind the impression of violated faith you 
have placed there ? Who shall restore to him the confidence in his 
fellow-members you have so rudely shaken ? Who shall give him 
that trustfulness of which your act has robbed him ? 

And in the place of that faith of which you have despoiled him, 
what did you return ? Did you seek to implant in his bosom seeds 
of suspicion, cynicism and doubt ? The germs you have sown with 
thoughtless hand may spring into this noxious growth. 

While you were dispossessing your friend of these jewels of the 
heart — confidence and trust — what booty did you hope to gain ? 
Nothing that could bring joy to you or give gladness to the world. 

But while no one has gained, neither you nor your companion in 
transgression, have suffered all the loss. The Order, which labors 
steadfastly to save, must bear some of the odium. The community, 
upon whom we seek to exert an influence for good, looks with dis- 
gust upon such glaring evidences of inconsistency on the part of 
our members, and j udges our true and faithful workers by these 
false and faithless acts. 

We shall be only too glad to believe that you have not inflicted 
this wrong upon us all deliberately and willfully. If you are 
guarded and honest in the future it will go far to convince us that 
this offense was the result of thoughtlessness and that your prom- 
ise now is an earnest of future fidelity. 



REFORM WORK. 207 

A few well-chosen words, warm from the heart and 
suited to the occasion, are better than any form that can 
be written. 

In dealing with a reformed man, no step should ever 
be taken without considering carefully the question . 

" How shall we most certainly prevent the renewal of old 
associations and habits ?" " How shall Ave most certainly 
accomplish his salvation?" 

Weigh every plan in this balance. " To save," is the 
watchword — the first and foremost purpose of the Order. 
The action of the lodge must ever be based on this pur- 
pose. 

Let the older and wiser members enter zealously into 
lodge labors, making this watchword their guiding star, 
and their efforts will be crowned with grand success : 

" Never yet, 

Share of truth was vainly set, 

In the world's broad fallow ; 
After hands may sow the seed, 
After hands shall reap the mead 

Of its harvests yellow." 

While the earnest workers, the heart and soul of the 
lodge, should be ever on the alert to keep the integrity 
of the whole lodge unsullied by violations on the part 
of individual members, yet credence should not be given 
too readily to rumors and flying reports affecting the 
fidelity of brothers or sisters. 

When they asked Jesus what they should do with the 
woman doomed to be stoned to death by the Mosaic law, 
He answered, with that sublimest rebuke ever adminis- 
tered to human vengeance and human hate : 

"Let him who is without sin cast the first 



13 



208 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

It was not condoning the offense ; it was no surrender 
of the inexorable perfectness of Divine law ; it was not 
even a reprieve, but the eye of measureless pity saw a 
trembling, cowering soul — a sinner for whom the world's 
Redeemer was to die. 

Just as they brought the sinning woman to Jesus, so 
the unsympathizing tongue of public gossip always 
brings its victims and demands their immolation. 

Sometimes it brings the guilty, sometimes it brings 
the innocent, but always it clamors remorselessly for 
their punishment. 

Inexperienced workers are sometimes led by these out- 
side influences into the commission of grave errors in the 
treatment of the reformed or reforming man, which seri- 
ously impair the usefulness of the lodge and defeat the 
ends for which it is established. 

In thousands of instances reports that A. or B. is 
drinking secretly get into circulation, when there exists 
not a shadow of foundation for their promulgation. A 
passing joke, a malicious sneer, or a random slur from a 
personal enemy is picked up by the envenomed tongue of 
some friend of the drunkard-mills, magnified into con- 
sequence, and retailed as sober fact. 

Gathering force from each successive repetition, it at 
last reaches the ear of the true-hearted Templar in shock- 
ing form and hideous proportions. 

The first feeling is of anger, perhaps. "How dishon- 
orable to break so solemn a pledge," the loyal Templar 
whispers to himself. The accused brother is shunned, 
grows repulsive in the eyes of the true and honest. This 
treatment may drive the brother to the commission of 
the very act of which he was wrongfully accused. 

Our Order can better afford to suffer wrong and bear 



REFORM WORK. 209 

reproach than thus to offend one of these " weak brothers 
for whom Christ died." 

Do not let any mere rumor affect the treatment of the 
members toward the accused brother. Even though 
fully satisfied that he breaks his obligation, still he 
should be treated kindly, cordially, and fraternally. Let 
him be taught that the friendship and brotherhood of 
our Order extends through good and ill report, that its 
warm sympathy covers even the unworthy, with Christ- 
like love and pity. The dramshop welcomes any who 
return to it, even though they have oft abandoned and 
renounced its associations. May we not learn a lesson 
from the very men whose devices allure our struggling 
brother back into the " highways of death?" They 
press to his lips the fatal glass as cheerfully and pleas- 
antly when he has avoided them as when he has been 
a daily visitor. 

Shall we, then, whose mission it is to give to the 
parched lips of sin a precious draught of the "water of 
life," refuse it because those lips are blistered with un- 
holy things? Eather let us seek the fallen one, and by 
the ministry of genuine brotherhood allay the fever of 
vice and restore the nobler nature to its rightful domin- 
ion. 

THE PLEDGE NEVER LOSES ITS BINDING FORCE. 

All the teaching of the Order should impress upon 
each member that the obligation of abstinence is just 
as binding after it is broken as if it had been kept 
inviolate. To break the pledge does not release the 
promise. If a man signs a note promising to pay a 
given sum January 1st and does not pay it on that day> 
of course his pledge to pay is broken, but although he 



210 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

has broken his obligation he is by no means released 
from payment of the note , 

The obligation a Good Templar assumes is " life-long 
in its duration." Death is the only release. While life 
continues the obligation continues. 

Let this be fully understood and taught. 

Let the drinker know that he is bound by his obliga- 
tion at all times and in all places. To drink once is to 
break it once; to driuk a second time is to break it a 
second time, — -just as many times as he drinks he breaks 
his vow. 

Let every effort be used to assist in keeping the pledge 
inviolate. 






CHAPTER XIII. 



WORK FOR THE CHILDREN. 



Good Templary has always recognized the importance 
of work which shall mold young minds into habits of 
temperance thought, and lead the unspotted child into 
the pathways of a pure and sober manhood. 

The Spanish priest, Ignatius Loyola, said : " Give me 
the training of the first ten years of a child's life, and I 
will make him a Catholic, no matter who teaches him in 
after years/' 

In some measure Loyola's idea is a true one. Early 
impressions are most vivid and lasting. If every child 
could have correct ideas impressed on his mind by con- 
scientious teachers of morals ; if every child could have 
clean and pure examples constantly before him for his 
emulation, a single generation would wipe out the liquor 
curse, and elevate and purify the race to an extent greater 
than would be accomplished by a hundred years of other 
effort. 

The earliest efforts of the Order towards systematizing 
the work for children, was in the direction of the " Cold 
Water Temples," afterwards "Juvenile Temples." 

Some jurisdictions have adopted " The Templar's Band 
of Hope!" 

Both systems are working well in their respective ju- 
risdictions. 

Every Grand Lodge should foster the children's work. 
[211] 



212 THE TEMPLAR AT WORK. 

Every Subordinate Lodge should maintain an organi- 
zation for children under its special care and protection. 

The noblest motive for this labor will be found in the 
grandeur and honor of the character built on the foun- 
dation laid by our workers in the juvenile bands. 

Another reason for this effort is the love for the tem- 
perance cause, and loyalty to its principles inspired by 
these early associations with earnest Good Templars. 
Children brought early under these influences will grow 
into the work of the Order, and as they reach manhood 
and womanhood will not only be ready to help, but will 
have had the training which will make their services 
valuable. 

In any system of work for children a jurisdiction 
may adopt, the first consideration must be, how to main- 
tain interest. It is impossible to instruct until we in- 
terest the learner. While older persons must attend 
the children's meetings and assist in perfecting plans, 
the children should be made to feel that it is their 
society, and that they must be largely responsible for its 
success. 

There should be several official positions, each having 
its prescribed duties, and these should be filled by the 
more intelligent and advanced boys and girls. Rituals 
or printed instructions should be furnished as an outline 
of their work. 

The presiding officers should also be chosen from among 
the children. 

It must be remembered that older persons will con- 
stantly be needed to advise, suggest, and assist, but not 
to absolutely control. 

Let the children elect their own officers; let them be 
instructed in preparing, and casting, and counting their 



WORK FOE, THE CHILDREN. 213 

ballots; let them appoint committees, arrange pro- 
grammes, and plan entertainments. 

The children must all understand that a pledge of 
total abstinence is the key to membership. 

The organization may be a secret or open one, but 
membership must depend on these conditions. 

Making abstinence a test of membership, it becomes 
necessary that membership shall be made desirable in 
the estimation of the children. 

A programme of recitations and declamations on the 
plans suggested under " Good of the Order/ 7 commen- 
cing on page 155, may be adopted. Songs, questions, 
recess for play, conundrums, etc., to amuse should be 
interspersed. 

Put thought and study into this branch of the work. 
The material is ready for the hand of any true man or 
woman to fashion into the symmetry of perfect moral 
beauty. Watch, for other hands are waiting to spoil 
sunny childhood of its sinlessness, and rear it in crime 
and stain it with dishonor. 

Let all our lodges remember that their best work pos- 
sesses only half the value it might if they would extend 
their efforts towards the training of the children. 

The Good Templar worker will strive to show to the 
world that the interests of humanity are ever present in 
the thought of our Order; that childhood, youth, man- 
hood, age — all share our care and attention; that wher- 
ever human soul is imperiled or a noble hope jeopardized, 
there the loyal Templar is to be found, struggling to 
shield and save. 

Let every brother and every sister of our whole Order 
rise above self and strive to elevate our work to the 
standard of our purest and highest ideals. 



INDEX. 



PAGE 

Appointments for workers 56, 59 

Ballot 143 

Benefits of organization 11 

Bookkeeping for Financial Secretary 113 

" Treasurer 120 

Celebrations and Fetes 189 

Chaplain 124 

Charter, Petition for 89 

Children 32, 36, 211 

Claims of Good Templary 20 

Collection of dues 117 

Committees, Executive 50, 72 

" Finance 123 

Literature 44 

" Standing 151 

Degrees 98, 128 

Deputies, District or County 79 

" Lodge 96, 126 

" Special 81 

" State or Provincial 77 

District Lodges 27, 67 

Duties of members 130 

" Officers 100 

Executive Committee (See Committee) 

Extent of the Order 28, 40 

Field work 52, 60 

Filing bills Ill 

Finance Committee 123 

Financial Secretary 112 

" System of the Order 25 

Funerals 189 

Good of the Order 155 

Good Templary explained 20 

[215] 



216 INDEX. 

PAGE 

Grand Lodges 27, 49 

Initiation 145 

Institution of Lodges 91, 187 

Instituting Officers 90 

Lectures 87, 167 

Legislation of G. L 51 

Libraries 190 

Literary exercises 26, 156 

Literature Fund , 3 . 44 

" Circulation of 189 

Marshal 124 

Minutes 106 

Music 161 

Objections to Good Templary 29, 37 

Obligation of abstinence 24 

Observing the law 138 

Officers, District and County Lodge 73 

" Grand Lodge 49 

' l Reports of, (See Eeports) 

" Subordinate Lodge 100 

Open Lodge meetings 180 

Order of business 140 

Organization of Lodges 83, 91 

" " object of 86 

Parliamentary Usage 25 

PastW. C. T 123 

Picnics and grove meetings 73 

Prayer meetings 1 85 

Programmes '. 69 

Public work 26, 163 

Quarterly reports (see reports) 

Question box 160 

Raising funds 169 

Recess 147 

Reform work 195 

Re-instatement 203 

Reports, of Financial Secretary 119 

" of Instituting Officers 83 

" of Lodges 72 

" of Marshal 125 

" of Secretary 109 



INDEX. 217 

PAGE 

Report of Treasurer 122 

Eight Worthy Grand Lodge , 27, 39 

Eitual '. 26 

Eoll call 141 

Salaries of G. L. Officers 49, 53 

Secrecy , 25, 30 

Secretary 104 

Sociables 182 

Supplies to New Lodges 64 

Temperance meetings 193 

Temperance men in the Order 35 

Training forthe young 23 

Treasurer 119 

Unity of the whole Order.. ; 42, 66 

Violated pledges 34, 201 

Visitations.... , 188 

Weekly meetings 33 

Woman in the Order.... ; 22 

Worthy Chief Templar- 101 

" Vice Templar 104 



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